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Recent Advances in Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis and Morphea

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Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) and morphea are autoimmune sclerosing diseases that cause significant morbidity, and in the case of SSc, mortality. The pathogenesis of both SSc and morphea share vascular dysfunction, auto-reactive T cells and Th2-associated cytokines, such as interleukin 4, and overproduction of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ). TGFβ stimulates fibroblast collagen and extra-cellular matrix production. Although morphea and SSc have similar pathogenic pathways and histological findings, they are distinct diseases. Recent advances in treatment of morphea, skin sclerosis in SSc, and interstitial lung disease in SSc are focused on targeting known pathogenic pathways.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3303 SW Bond Avenue, Portland, OR, 97239, USA

    Noelle Teske & Nicole Fett

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  1. Noelle Teske
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  2. Nicole Fett
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Correspondence to Nicole Fett.

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Dr. Teske wrote the entire section on morphea. Dr. Fett wrote the entire section on SSc. Both Drs. Teske and Fett edited the entire manuscript as well as read and approved the final manuscript.

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Teske, N., Fett, N. Recent Advances in Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis and Morphea. Am J Clin Dermatol 25, 213–226 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-023-00831-2

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