Publisher： Bentham Science Publishers
E-ISSN： 1875-6360|6|4|275-275
ISSN： 1573-3971
Source： Current Rheumatology Reviews, Vol.6, Iss.4, 2010-11, pp. : 275-275
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic, multisystemic disease of unknown etiology. Twin studies and the presence of geographical clusters of the SSc suggest that environmental factors play a major role in the development of this disease. The main characteristics of SSc are extensive deposition of extracellular matrix in skin and internal organs, microvasculopathy, and immune activation. These changes may cause devastating complications, which made rheumatologists feel uncomfortable before patients with SSc, as they could offer no help. However, in recent years there have been important advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of SSc that reflected in the improvement in health care delivery for patients. Understandably, there was a great interest in SSc, and topics on SSc in Congresses attracted huge audiences.Fibroblasts are cells that produce extracellular matrix, and activation of fibroblasts can be intrinsic or caused by signals derived from other cells. In this issue we are happy to have eminent authors reviewing important aspects of SSc. Professor Jimenez and colleagues review recent advances in fibroblast activation and signal transduction. Professor Sakkas and colleagues review the immunological aspects of SSc and how these translate into management of SSc patients. Professor Matucci-Cerinic and colleagues review the clinical manifestations of SSc and their management. Professor Distler and colleagues review promising future treatments for SSc.We are grateful to our authors and we hope that readers will have useful information and will enjoy reading. We hope that this issue of the journal will help practicing clinicians in their care for SSc patients.
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