Nodular Scleroderma in a Patient With Anti-RNA Polymerase III-Antibody Positive Systemic Sclerosis: A Case Report and...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Nodular scleroderma (NS) is a rare systemic sclerosis (SSc) variant.
• NS clinically resembles keloids, posing diagnostic challenges.
• Anti-RNA polymerase III antibodies are associated with specific SSc subtypes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a novel case of NS in an anti-RNA polymerase III antibody-positive SSc patient.
• To describe the clinical presentation, histopathology, and treatment response of this NS case.
• To expand the understanding of NS in SSc and its therapeutic options.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 76-year-old woman with anti-RNA polymerase III antibody-positive SSc.
• Clinical observation of keloid-like plaque development post-rituximab therapy.
• Histopathological examination of skin lesions.
• Review of relevant literature on NS in SSc.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with erythematous, pruritic, keloid-like plaques.
• Histopathology confirmed NS, distinct from keloids.
• This is the first reported case of NS associated with anti-RNA polymerase III antibody-positive SSc.
• Topical PUVA therapy reduced pruritus and softened lesions.

Conclusions:

• Nodular scleroderma can occur in anti-RNA polymerase III antibody-positive SSc.
• PUVA therapy is a potential treatment for symptomatic NS lesions.
• This case broadens the serological associations of NS in SSc.