Clinical Immunology focuses on the immune system’s health. Learn about the diagnosis and treatment of allergies, autoimmune diseases, and immunodeficiencies.
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Recovery in scleroderma is not a return to the pre-disease state but rather the establishment of a stable, managed condition where the patient can thrive despite the diagnosis. The concept of “recovery” encompasses physical rehabilitation, psychological adaptation, and the prevention of future damage. Follow-up is the lifeline of this process. Because the disease is chronic and progressive, the gap between a stable patient and a critical complication can be bridged only by vigilance. At Liv Hospital, our follow-up protocols are rigorous, designed to catch complications like pulmonary hypertension in their asymptomatic phase when they are most treatable.
PAH is a leading cause of death, but it is treatable if caught early. International guidelines recommend an annual transthoracic echocardiogram for all scleroderma patients, regardless of symptoms. If the echo is borderline or if the DLCO on lung function tests drops disproportionately, a Right Heart Catheterization (the gold standard) is performed to confirm pressures.
Patients with early diffuse disease or established ILD require Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) every 3 to 6 months. Stable patients may move to annual testing. This tracking allows for the timely introduction of rescue therapies like rituximab or nintedanib if a decline is detected.
The Modified Rodnan Skin Score (mRSS) is a clinical tool used to measure the extent of skin thickening. Regular scoring helps track whether the disease is progressing or responding to immunosuppression. A softening of the skin is a key indicator of treatment success.
Sclerodactyly (clawing of the fingers) is a significant cause of disability. Rehabilitation focuses on preserving the “functional hand position.” Daily range-of-motion exercises, grip strengthening, and the use of night splints are employed to prevent permanent contractures.
“Microstomia” can make eating and dental care difficult. Orofacial exercises, such as mouth stretching and lip pursing, are taught to maintain elasticity. In some cases, fat grafting injections are used to restore volume and improve skin pliability around the mouth.
Patients often suffer from deconditioning due to pain and fatigue. A supervised low-impact aerobic exercise program (such as swimming or stationary cycling) improves cardiovascular endurance without stressing the joints, helping combat the profound fatigue associated with the disease.
Maintaining a healthy weight is a battle for many scleroderma patients.
Maintaining a healthy weight is a battle for many scleroderma patients.
The unpredictability of scleroderma creates significant anxiety. Depression rates are high. Recovery includes screening for mental health issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in helping patients manage chronic pain and the stress of the diagnosis.
The changes in appearance—telangiectasias, facial shape changes, and hand deformities—can be devastating. We provide access to corrective dermatology (lasers) and counseling to help patients navigate these changes and rebuild self-esteem.
Historically, women with scleroderma were advised against pregnancy. Today, with careful management, successful outcomes are common.
Managing scleroderma requires more than a doctor; it requires an ecosystem of care. Liv Hospital stands as a beacon of excellence for scleroderma patients, offering a fully integrated, multidisciplinary center of excellence.
At Liv Hospital, we don’t just manage the disease; we partner with you to protect your future.
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Yes. While adjustments are necessary, many patients lead whole, active lives. Early diagnosis and adherence to treatment are the most significant factors in maintaining a normal lifestyle.
Dress in layers, wear heated gloves, use hand warmers, and avoid rapid temperature changes. Keeping your core warm is as important as keeping your hands warm.
Absolutely. Exercise keeps skin and joints flexible and improves circulation. However, it should be tailored to your ability; avoid high-impact activities if you have joint damage.
Consult your rheumatologist immediately. Do not stop medications on your own, but start the planning process early so your doctor can switch you to pregnancy-safe treatments.
Dry mouth and tight skin increase the risk of gum disease. Regular dental cleanings (3-4 times a year) and specific jaw exercises are crucial to prevent tooth loss.
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