Systemic sclerosis is a collagen vascular disease which could lead to fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. It is characterized by a high disease burden and mortality. The 2013 classification criteria system helps to recognize the disease early, which allows prompt intervention and a better survival. In the past few year the recognition of the association between the presence of RNA polimerase III antibodies and malignancies was important. Treatment options of SSc have been improved. Early, intensive immunosuppressive treatment (cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil) of interstitial lung disease inhibits progression. There are several treatment modalities for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension and digital ulcers (endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors, prostaglandin analogues). Antifibrotic drugs (nintedanib, riociguate) are also available among former immunosuppressive and vasoactive agents. Lenabasum is a new promising selective cannabinoid receptor 2 agonist, which inhibits inflammation and fibrosis. Localized scleroderma presents a diverse clinical picture. The disease leads to fibrosis of the skin but it is not accompanied with serious inner organ involvement typically seen in systemic sclerosis. Capillaroscopy abnormalities, sclerodactyly and SSc specific antibodies are absent in localized scleroderma . The 2017 EDF guideline formulates a very useful classification, checkup and treatment recommendations.
Localized Scleroderma, Systemic Sclerosis and Cardiovascular Risk: A Danish Nationwide Cohort Study