Scleroderma Insights

High Pigf Levels Linked to Scleroderma Renal Crisis in Patients, Study Finds

A study found that patients with systemic scleroderma who experience renal crisis often have high levels of placental growth factor (PlGF), which could be a useful biomarker for predicting this serious complication. High PlGF levels may help doctors identify at-risk patients and provide timely treatment to prevent or manage renal crisis in scleroderma patients.

Botulinum Toxin May Help Treat Raynaud's Phenomenon in Patients, Study Finds

A recent study suggests that botulinum toxin could be an effective treatment for Raynaud's phenomenon, a common symptom in people with scleroderma. The treatment showed significant improvement in reducing the frequency and severity of Raynaud's attacks.

Frailty in Systemic Sclerosis Increases Mortality Risk Nearly 10 Times

Frailty in people with systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, significantly increases the risk of mortality, with frail individuals nearly 10 times more likely to die. This highlights the importance of addressing frailty in scleroderma management to improve patient outcomes.

Recent advancements in scleroderma treatment and understanding have been highlighted in three studies. Zheng et al. (2025) demonstrated that high-density fat combined with stromal vascular fraction gel can effectively repair facial skin lesions caused by localized scleroderma, with patients reporting satisfaction with the skin's appearance and texture post-surgery.

Meanwhile, Cooper (2025) found that botulinum toxin injections in the hand significantly reduced pain and disability in patients with Raynaud's syndrome secondary to scleroderma, suggesting a new avenue for symptom relief.

Lastly, Collet et al. (2025) reported abnormal production of steroid hormones in systemic sclerosis patients, which was particularly pronounced in severe cases and during scleroderma renal crisis, indicating a potential role of these hormones in the disease's pathogenesis.