A case of systemic sclerosis with abdominal surgery for stenosis of the terminal ileum

Abstract

A 71-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with prominent abdominal distention. The diagnosis of systemic sclerosis (SSc) was made based on the sclerosis on her face, forearms, fingers, and toes as well as pitting ulcers on fingers and toes. After conservative therapy, she presented more severe signs of peritoneal irritation. Abdominal surgery was performed, revealing stenosis at the terminal ileum. Pathologically, this region showed muscularis propia becoming fibrotic. She was discharged from the hospital, returning about once a month as an outpatient.