Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is generally considered an autoimmune disorder characterized by fibrosis and buildup of scar tissue in the skin and internal organs, including the musculoskeletal system, lungs, kidney, heart, gastrointestinal tract, and peripheral circulation.
Studies have shown that damage to the lungs, together with associated impairment of lung function, is the leading cause of death in people with systemic sclerosis.
Dr Robert Spiera, director of the vasculitis and scleroderma program at the Hospital for Special Surgery, discusses the role of lung fibrosis in people with systemic sclerosis, and how proper assessment and treatment can optimize patient outcomes.
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Cite this: Managing Lung Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis Patients - Medscape - Jun 18, 2020.
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