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Circulatory system in children with localized scleroderma

W Rokicki1, M Dukalska, J Rubisz-Brzezińska

  • 1Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Silesian Medical School, 40-635 Katowice, ul. Ziolowa 46, Poland.

Pediatric Cardiology
|May 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Children with localized scleroderma show circulatory system abnormalities, including ECG and echocardiographic findings, particularly affecting mitral valve function. Exercise tolerance remained comparable to controls, indicating specific cardiac impacts beyond physical growth differences.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Cardiology
  • Rheumatology

Background:

  • Localized scleroderma is an autoimmune condition affecting the skin.
  • Potential systemic involvement, including the cardiovascular system, requires further investigation in pediatric cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively assess the circulatory system in children with localized scleroderma.
  • To identify potential cardiac abnormalities and functional changes associated with the condition.

Main Methods:

  • Pediatric and cardiologic examinations were performed on 43 children (ages 3-18).
  • Included electrocardiogram (ECG), 24-h Holter monitoring, echocardiography with Doppler, and treadmill exercise testing.
  • Exclusion of 3 children with congenital heart malformations.

Main Results:

  • Children with scleroderma were lighter and shorter than controls.
  • Common ECG abnormality: incomplete right bundle branch block; other ECG/Holter abnormalities noted.
  • Abnormal echocardiograms in 16 children, primarily affecting mitral valve function and left ventricular indices.

Conclusions:

  • Children with localized scleroderma exhibit distinct cardiovascular findings, notably mitral valve dysfunction.
  • While physical growth may be affected, exercise capacity is not significantly different from controls.
  • Cardiovascular monitoring is crucial for children diagnosed with localized scleroderma.

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