From Localized Scleroderma to Systemic Sclerosis: Coexistence or Possible Evolution

Abstract

Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) and localized scleroderma (LoS) are two different diseases that may share some features. We evaluated the relationship between SSc and LoS in our case series of SSc patients. Methods We analysed the clinical records of 330 SSc patients, in order to find the eventual occurrence of both the two diseases. Results Eight (2.4%) female patients presented both the two diagnoses in their clinical histories. Six developed LoS prior to SSc; in 4/6 cases, the presence of autoantibodies was observed before SSc diagnosis. Overall, the median time interval between LoS and SSc diagnosis was 18 (range 0–156) months. Conclusions LoS and SSc are two distinct clinical entities that may coexist. Moreover, as anecdotally reported in pediatric populations, we suggested the possible development of SSc in adult patients with LoS, particularly in presence of Raynaud's phenomenon or antinuclear antibodies before the SSc onset.

Localized scleroderma (morphea). Diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations of the Polish Dermatological Society

“…W wielu pracach zwraca się uwagę, że w zależności od odmiany klinicznej LoSc mogą pojawić się objawy pozaskórne [3,6]. W świetle aktualnej wiedzy LoSc nie ulega progresji do twardziny układowej (systemic sclerosis -SSc), należy jednak pamiętać o możliwości współistnienia obu chorób [1,5,7].…”

“…Many papers emphasize the fact that depending on the clinical type of LoSc, extracutaneous manifestations may appear [3,6]. According to the current state of knowledge, LoSc does not progress into systemic sclerosis (SSc); however, it should be remembered that both diseases might co-exist [1,5,7].…”

Bee venom acupuncture for circumscribed morphea in a patient with systemic sclerosis

“…Pharmacopuncture involves stimulation of acupoints with an injection of herbal medicines in TKM and TCM; it exhibits more rapid efficacy than oral administration because the drug does not pass through the digestive system, and is frequently used for the regulation of immune balance in clinical settings. [4,5] The patient had previous experience with bee venom pharmacopuncture due to shoulder pain. Thus, to relieve rapidly worsening localized skin symptoms by using immune regulation, we selected bee venom pharmacopuncture.…”

“…[1,2] While the association of morphea and systemic sclerosis (SSc) is considered to be a rare condition, several studies have reported their coexistence or possible coevolution. [3,4]…”

Erratum to “From Localized Scleroderma to Systemic Sclerosis: Coexistence or Possible Evolution”

“…In the article titled “From Localized Scleroderma to Systemic Sclerosis: Coexistence or Possible Evolution” [ 1 ], the first and last names of all the authors were reversed. The revised authors' list is shown above.…”