A swinging heart in limited systemic sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease affecting connective tissues.
• Limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lSSc) typically has a milder skin presentation but can involve internal organs.
• Pericardial effusion is a known complication, more frequently associated with diffuse systemic sclerosis.

Observation:

• This report details a third patient diagnosed with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lSSc).
• The patient presented with a significant pericardial effusion.
• The effusion led to hemodynamic compromise, indicating a severe clinical state.

Findings:

• Hemodynamically compromising pericardial effusion can occur in limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lSSc).
• This presentation is less common in lSSc compared to diffuse systemic sclerosis.
• The case highlights the potential severity of cardiac complications in lSSc.

Implications:

• Recognizing pericardial effusion in lSSc is critical for prompt diagnosis and management.
• Timely intervention for hemodynamically compromising effusions can be lifesaving.
• This case expands the understanding of potential cardiac manifestations in limited systemic sclerosis.