Systemic sclerosis

In this Perspective article, members of the European Reference Network on Rare and Complex Connective Tissue and Musculoskeletal Diseases discuss clinical and organizational challenges in this community caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and what lessons might be learned for the future.

Raynaud phenomenon and digital ulcers are some of the most common and difficult to treat manifestations of systemic sclerosis. In this Review, the authors outline how to assess and treat these conditions, and also discuss unmet clinical needs.

Myofibroblasts are important mediators of wound healing but can also perpetuate fibrosis in diseases such as systemic sclerosis by evading apoptosis. Therapeutic targeting of the survival mechanisms used by these cells in fibrotic disease holds promise for the reversal of fibrosis.