Stem Cell Transplant for Scleroderma Treatment in India

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is a safe and effective treatment modality in cases of severe scleroderma. This technique has shown significant improvement in skin sclerosis and stabilization of functions of internal organs. 

Evidence from clinical studies suggests that AHSCT can be a real disease-modifying treatment for systemic sclerosis with better long-term survival in comparison with other conventional treatment. 

What are the types of scleroderma?

Mainly, there are two types of scleroderma:

1. Localized scleroderma: It is a more common form of the disease and mainly affects the skin, usually in just a few places. It appears as waxy patches or streaks on the skin. This less severe form may go away or stop progressing without treatment

There are further two kinds of localized scleroderma:

• a. Morphea: This causes hard, discolored patches of varying sizes and shapes on the skin.
• b. Linear: This involves the formation of lines or streaks of thickened skin on the arms, legs, or face. It is known as en coup de sabre if a long crease forms on the head or neck. Linear localized scleroderma involves deeper layers of the skin and the surface layers, and at times even affect the movement of the joints. It usually develops in childhood and affects the growth of limbs in children

2. Systemic scleroderma: It is also known as generalized scleroderma. This is a more severe form and involves various body parts or systems. It is also of two kinds:

• a. Limited scleroderma: It starts slowly, affecting the skin of the face, hands, and feet. It can then damage internal organs like the lungs, intestines, or esophagus. The tissues of the affected organs become hard and fibrous, making them function less efficiently. Sometimes, it can affect the heart and increase blood pressure in the lungs.

It is also referred to as CREST syndrome which stands for.

• Calcinosis
• Raynaud Phenomenon
• Esophageal dysfunction
• Sclerodactyly
• Telangiectasia
• b. Diffuse scleroderma: This form manifests quickly and affects the skin on the middle part of the body, thighs, upper arms, hands, and feet. It also involves damage to internal organs and causes problems like kidney failure, restriction of digestive and pulmonary functions. This type of scleroderma can become life-threatening.