Future Research
Scientists are baffled as to what could be causing scleroderma and there are studies undertaken to understand the causes. Genes that could be playing the underlying role are being probed. In this context the role of cytokines( cell messengers) in causing scleroderma is carefully looked into.
There is a lot of work going on in the areas of treatment for scleroderma. The effectiveness of Psoralen and ultraviolet light therapy (PUVA) is being evaluated as a possible treatment for Limited Scleroderma.
The hormone Relaxin, which normally functions in women by preparing the womb for childbirth, is being studied for its role in the treatment of scleroderma.
In a recent edition of the Journal Dermatology (2009), it has been reported that there is a closer connection between a gene profile for the profibrotic pathway TGF-beta and a tendency in some scleroderma sufferers to develop lung problems. The report says - "The finding that a gene signature expressed in the skin is associated with the occurrence of lung disease is surprising and to our knowledge is previously unreported," it adds - "ILD [interstitial lung disease] is the leading cause of death among patients with dSSc [diffuse systemic sclerosis]. Recent work has developed tools and methods for diagnosis, staging, and characterization of ILD in dSSc patients; however, biomarkers that reliably predict who will develop lung complications before they become symptomatic would be beneficial."
