The pathogenesis, diagnostic utility and clinical relevance of cutaneous telangiectasia in systemic sclerosis

Aishwarya Anilkumar, Matthew Wells, Robyn T. Domsic, Laura K. Hummers, Ami A. Shah, John D. Pauling

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Cutaneous telangiectasia (Tel) are visible permanently dilated postcapillary dermal venules and are one of the most common disease-specific manifestations of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Telangiectasia have long been recognised for their utility in the diagnosis and classification of SSc, but the clinical and prognostic relevance of these aberrant cutaneous vascular manifestations has been somewhat neglected by clinicians. Similarly, the impact of SSc-Tel on body image dissatisfaction and social discomfort has been under-appreciated. The paucity of evidence-based approaches to management has limited access to potential effective treatments for SSc-Tel. The present review examines the pathogenesis, diagnostic value, impact and clinical relevance of telangiectasia in SSc. We highlight the potentially overlooked prognostic value and clinical utility of SSc-Tel, as part of a broader appraisal of areas of unmet research need.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number152593
JournalSeminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism
Volume70
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2025

Keywords

  • Biomarker
  • Classification
  • Clinical outcome measures
  • Diagnosis
  • Prognosis
  • Raynaud's phenomenon
  • Systemic sclerosis
  • Telangiectasia
  • Treatment efficacy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rheumatology
  • Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

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