Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic Sclerosis Treatment at IRIS
Autoimmune Connective Tissue Disorder

Understanding Systemic Sclerosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Advanced Care

Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma) is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disorder that primarily affects the skin, causing thickening and hardening, and can also involve internal organs such as the lungs, kidneys, heart, and digestive tract. Unlike localized skin conditions, systemic sclerosis occurs when the immune system triggers excessive collagen production. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial to managing symptoms, preventing organ damage, and improving quality of life. At IRIS Centre for Rheumatology, we offer world-class, patient-centric care for systemic sclerosis using the latest advances in rheumatology.

Systemic Sclerosis can affect anyone at any age, but it most commonly begins between the ages of 30 and 50. Women are affected more frequently than men. The condition may also cause systemic inflammation affecting the blood vessels, muscles, and internal organs. At IRIS, our multidisciplinary team ensures comprehensive management from early diagnosis to long-term remission strategies.

With our state-of-the-art immunodiagnostic laboratory, capillaroscopy, and personalized treatment plans — including immunosuppressants, vasodilators, and antifibrotic agents — we aim to halt disease progression, relieve symptoms, and restore quality of life. Healing begins with expert care and compassion.

Systemic Sclerosis Symptoms

Common Symptoms of Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic Sclerosis symptoms can vary in severity. Early recognition leads to better outcomes.

  • Skin thickening and hardening (scleroderma)
  • Raynaud's phenomenon (color changes in fingers/toes with cold)
  • Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
  • Digestive issues (reflux, difficulty swallowing)
  • Shortness of breath (lung involvement)
  • Calcinosis, telangiectasias, and finger ulcers

Diagnosis at IRIS

Early and accurate diagnosis is key to controlling systemic sclerosis. Our advanced diagnostic tools include:

  • Comprehensive clinical examination & skin assessment
  • Blood tests: ANA, Anti-Scl-70 (Anti-Topoisomerase I), Anti-Centromere
  • Nailfold capillaroscopy for microvascular changes
  • Pulmonary function tests and HRCT chest
  • Echocardiogram for pulmonary hypertension

Advanced Treatment Options

We tailor treatments to achieve remission and improve life quality.

  • Immunosuppressive agents (Mycophenolate, Cyclophosphamide)
  • Vasodilators for Raynaud's phenomenon
  • Antifibrotic therapy (Tocilizumab, Nintedanib)
  • Proton pump inhibitors for reflux
  • Physiotherapy and hand rehabilitation
  • Patient education & regular organ monitoring

Why Choose IRIS for Systemic Sclerosis Care?

  • Expert rheumatologists with 13+ years experience
  • ISO 9001:2015 Certified & NABH accredited lab
  • On-site nailfold capillaroscopy & immunodiagnostics
  • Personalized immunosuppressive therapy monitoring
  • Integrated care for lung, kidney, and heart involvement
  • Compassionate, patient-centric approach
  • Over 2000+ patients successfully treated
  • Multidisciplinary care for systemic involvement


IRIS Centre for Rheumatology Kollam