What is the newest treatment for scleroderma?

Two drugs are currently FDA approved to treat lung scarring, or pulmonary fibrosis, that occurs as a result of scleroderma: nintedanib and tocilizumab.

What is the survival rate for scleroderma?

Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) runs a variable course. A review of 11 studies, totalling over 2000 patients, revealed 5-year cumulative survival rates ranging from 34 to 73 per cent, with a mean of 68 per cent [I]. Organ failure is generally regarded as the major cause of death in this disease.

What medications help scleroderma?

There are several drugs that are being used, but only a few well designed studies have been performed. These immunosuppressing drugs include methotrexate, cyclosporine, antithymocyte globulin, mycophenolate mofetil and cyclophosphamide.

Can you live a normal life with scleroderma?

In general, patients with limited scleroderma have a normal life expectancy. Some have problems with their GI tract, especially heartburn; severe Raynaud’s and musculoskeletal pain; and a small subset can develop pulmonary hypertension that can be life-threatening.

How can I reverse scleroderma naturally?

There is no cure for scleroderma. Medications can treat symptoms and prevent complications. Making changes to your lifestyle and diet can make living with the disease easier.

Does scleroderma shorten your life?

How does scleroderma lead to death?

Most scleroderma experts believe that, currently, the most frequent cause of death is pulmonary involvement, either interstitial lung disease or pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

What vitamins are good for scleroderma?

Consider taking an over the counter multivitamin/mineral supplement containing 15 mg zinc, 10-18 mg iron, vitamins A, D, E, and K, folate, and B-12. If specific nutrient deficiencies have been identified, extra supplementation may be required.

Does exercise help scleroderma?

Regular exercise is especially important for people with scleroderma because it helps manage common symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain and stiffness, and stress.

What is the root cause of scleroderma?

Scleroderma results from an overproduction and accumulation of collagen in body tissues. Collagen is a fibrous type of protein that makes up your body’s connective tissues, including your skin. Doctors don’t know exactly what causes this process to begin, but the body’s immune system appears to play a role.