About this Research Topic
Interstitial lung disease is a common and serious complication of scleroderma, involving inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. It can cause shortness of breath, cough, and decreased lung function. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent further damage and improve outcomes in scleroderma patients.
The goal of this Research Topic is to explore various aspects of scleroderma, including an overview of its symptoms, such as skin thickening, Raynaud's phenomenon, and internal organ complications. We hope to further delve into the root causes of scleroderma, encompassing autoimmune dysregulation and genetic factors. Treatment options can also be discussed, including medications for symptom management, immunosuppressive therapies, and supportive care measures. Part of this Research Topic’s objective is to focus on the role of TGFβ1, a cytokine central to fibrosis and immune dysregulation, in scleroderma, emphasizing its heightened immunoexpression in patients' skin, which contributes to fibrotic processes and immune abnormalities, thereby suggesting potential avenues for targeted therapies. Moreover, to explore the correlation between nail fold capillaroscopy and OCTA in systemic sclerosis patients, showcasing how both techniques offer valuable insights into microvasculature and the assessment of vascular abnormalities. Despite limited research in this area, we hope to address the potential for synergistic information and the integration of findings from both techniques to enhance our understanding of the disease. Ultimately, the Research Topic aims to contribute to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for scleroderma patients.
Understanding scleroderma is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management. This Research Topic accepts Original Research, Systematic Review, Review and Mini-Review, Perspective, Case Report, Conceptual Analysis, , Brief Research Report, Data Report, General Commentary, Opinion
We welcome manuscripts focusing on, but not limited to, the following sub-topics:
• Scleroderma symptoms, causes, and treatment options
• Scleroderma-like syndromes
• Interstitial lung disease in scleroderma
• The immunoexpression of TGFβ1 in the skin
• The correlation between nail fold capillaroscopy and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in patients with systemic sclerosis
• The latest drugs in scleroderma
The Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject.
Keywords: nail fold capillaroscopy, OCTA, immunoexpression of TGFβ1, symptoms, causes, and treatment options for scleroderma
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.