Scleroderma

This study compared two treatment strategies for people with early, severe scleroderma: a stem cell transplant using their own cells versus standard immunosuppressive drugs. The trial enrolled 60 adults with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis. The goal was to see which approach…

This study tested whether a combination of the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide and the steroid prednisone could help people with scleroderma-related lung disease. Forty adults whose lung function had worsened in the past year received either the drug combo or a placebo plus pr…

This study tested whether MRI can detect and monitor interstitial lung disease (lung scarring) in people with scleroderma. Twenty-five adults with scleroderma underwent both MRI and CT scans. A subset also breathed in a special xenon gas to see how well their lungs exchange oxyge…

This pilot study tests whether a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) device is acceptable and helpful for people with scleroderma who experience gastroparesis symptoms like bloating and distension. Participants use the device for 45 minutes twice daily after meals …

This early-phase study tested whether a drug used for lymphoma, brentuximab vedotin, is safe for people with a severe form of scleroderma (diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis). The drug targets overactive immune cells that may drive the disease. Only 17 people took part, and the…

This small study tested a new way to treat microstomia (a tight, small mouth) caused by scleroderma. Three adults received three sessions of a laser treatment that delivered hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down tight tissue, directly into the skin. The goal was to improve mo…

This pilot study tested whether gentle yoga and breathing exercises are feasible for people with scleroderma, a condition that can limit movement. Thirty participants learned chair-based yoga and breathing techniques, then practiced twice daily at home for 10 weeks. Researchers m…

This trial tests an online self-management program for people with scleroderma (systemic sclerosis). Participants watch videos of patients and health professionals teaching techniques to manage pain, fatigue, skin issues, and more. The program also includes group video calls led …

This study collects tissue and blood samples from 300 people with autoimmune diseases like Crohn's, multiple sclerosis, and celiac disease. Researchers aim to identify the specific targets of immune cells (T cells) that cause inflammation. The goal is to discover new targets for …

This study aims to find the best way to share research results with people who have scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease. About 128 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either an infographic or a plain-language summary of a study. They will then rate how complete, …

This completed study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing impacted the mental health of 259 adults with chronic inflammatory rheumatism (like rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis). Researchers used questionnaires to measure stress, depression, anxie…

This study tested whether a special MRI technique can measure lung stiffness in people with scleroderma, a disease that often causes lung scarring. Researchers enrolled 24 adults and compared MRI results to standard lung function tests. The goal was to see if MRI could offer a sa…

This study looked at 43 adults with scleroderma or unexplained pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) to understand why the right side of the heart weakens. Researchers collected blood and tissue samples during routine procedures and measured heart function over 6 months. The goal…

This study looked at whether people with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) have higher levels of the hormone prolactin in their blood. Researchers measured prolactin in 71 patients and compared them to healthy volunteers. The goal was to understand if prolactin plays a role in the…

This study looked at whether the way depression questions are asked changes how people with scleroderma report physical symptoms like sleep problems, fatigue, and appetite changes. Over 800 participants were randomly assigned to answer the same depression questionnaire either in …