A Patient-Centric Approach to Integrated Management of Scleroderma

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disorder characterized by progressive fibrosis, vascular abnormalities, and functional impairment. In Ayurveda, the clinical presentation of SSc can be correlated with Vatarakta involving vitiation of Vata and Rakta along with deeper tissue involvement. This case report describes the integrative management of a 42-year-old female diagnosed with systemic sclerosis presenting with skin tightening, hyperpigmentation, polyarthralgia, dysphagia, restricted oral aperture, and gait difficulty. Baseline investigations revealed positive ANA and anti-Scl-70 antibodies with moderate skin involvement and severe functional limitation. The patient was managed on the line of treatment of Vatarakta through a stage-wise integrative approach combining conventional therapy with Ayurvedic Shamana medications, Panchakarma procedures including Basti and Abhyanga-Swedana, and physiotherapy. Progressive improvement was observed in pain, skin flexibility, oral aperture, dysphagia, gait, and hand function. Modified Rodnan Skin Score improved from 14/51 to 9/51 with significant functional recovery. This case highlights the potential role of integrative Ayurvedic management in improving quality of life in systemic sclerosis.