As part of scleroderma awareness month, we’ve put together this article which covers 7 facts you should know about this uncommon condition and how cord blood stem cells are being used to treat it. But first, what is it?
What is scleroderma?
Simply put, scleroderma is a condition that creates hard, thickened areas of skin which can cause problems with internal organs and blood vessels. This is a result of the immune system attacking connective tissue under the skin and around organs which causes scarring.
Whilst there is no cure for scleroderma, it can be treated with:
- Medication to improve circulation
- Medication to reduce the activity of the immune system
- Steroids to prevent problems in the joints and muscles
- Additional medication to control other symptoms such as pain, high blood pressure etc.
There are two types of scleroderma:
- Localised – which only affects the skin tissue. It may get better or go away without treatment but can scar the skin.
- Systemic – which affects the skin and the major organs.
1. Scleroderma can cause a number of additional conditions
Because scleroderma affects the skin and organs, there are a number of additional conditions that can be caused by it, including:
- Raynaud’s phenomenon
- Stiff and painful joints
- Dental problems
- Heartburn
- Kidney failure
- Lung damage
- Scarred and weakened heart
2. Approximately 90% of those who have scleroderma suffer from Raynaud’s phenomenon
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition where arteries spasm and cause reduced blood flow to certain areas ― normally this affects the fingers and can occasionally affect the toes. In rare circumstances, this can also affect the ears, nose and lips.
3. This disease is most common in women
Whilst scleroderma can affect anyone – men, women and children – it is most common in women. Most localised types are more common in those of European descent and are most likely to show up before the age of 40. However, systemic types are more common in those of African-American descent and aged between 30 and 50.
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4. People suffering from scleroderma can lead a full and productive life
Despite the potential side-effects of this disease and the additional conditions that can make day-to-day life difficult, most scleroderma sufferers are able to live full and productive lives.
5. Stem cell trials have found that some patients were left disease-free
In a clinical trial where 36 patients were treated via cord blood stem cells, there was a significantly reduced rate in the likelihood of a relapse. The patients received the stem cell transplants, after chemotherapy and total-body irradiation.
6. The survival rate after stem cell treatment increased from 51% to 86%
After monitoring the patients throughout the 6-year period after the treatment, there was a significant increase in the survival rate compared to those who received the standard immunosuppressant – the current method of treatment.
7. Patients treated with cord blood stem cells have reported a better quality of life
Whilst the clinical trial wasn’t able to cure every patient, those treated with the cord blood stem cells reported a significant improvement to their quality of life after the treatment. This includes:
- Less pain
- Less fatigue
- Better mobility
- Improved breathing
Resources:
https://www.cryo-cell.com/treatments-research/cord-blood-cord-tissue-research/stem-cells-better-alternative-scleroderma
https://sclerodermanews.com/2017/04/24/eleven-fast-facts-about-systemic-sclerosis/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scleroderma/#living-with-scleroderma
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