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A swinging heart in limited systemic sclerosis
S E Plotnick1, M D Coe, L M Ludmer
1Section of Rheumatology, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis can cause life-threatening pericardial effusion. Early recognition of this rare complication in limited systemic sclerosis is crucial for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes.
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.