Comparison between clinical and immunological features of scleroderma with and without interstitial lung disease

Abstract

The study was conducted at the Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, and comprised 20 female patients ages 18-55 years having scleroderma. Overall, 14(70%) patients had diffuse scleroderma and 6(30%) had limited scleroderma. The patients with interstitial lung disease were placed in group 1, while those without interstitial lung disease were placed in group 2. Intergroup difference was significant with respect to palpitations, dysphagia, early satiety/reflux, constipation, pulp atrophy, arthritis, tendon friction rubs, digital pitting, digital ulcers, joint contractures, hypertension, positive anti-topoisomerase I antibody, and pulmonary hypertension (p<0.05).

Key Words: Systemic sclerosis, Scleroderma, Interstitial lung disease.