Digital Intradermal Hyaluronidase for Sclerodactyly in Systemic Sclerosis
Medical University of South Carolina
Summary
Translational studies have demonstrated reduced hyaluronidase activity in the skin of patients with systemic sclerosis. It is thought this may contribute to the progressive fibrosis seen in this disease. Several studies have demonstrated that exogenous hyaluronidase is very effective at improving systemic sclerosis associated microstomia. Therefore, this study aims to explore hyaluronidase for systemic sclerosis associated sclerodactyly.
Description
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Sclerodactyly, a key manifestation, results in skin thickening, joint contractures, reduced digital range of motion, and significant functional impairment. There are currently no effective localized therapies to improve hand mobility in affected patients. Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that degrades hyaluronic acid within the extracellular matrix and is widely used in dermatology with a well-established safety profile. Emerging evidence suggests that reduced endogenous h…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–60 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥18 and \<60 years * Diagnosis of systemic sclerosis * Presence of sclerodactyly * Ability to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Known hypersensitivity to hyaluronidase * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * Unstable systemic disease * Recent changes in systemic immunomodulatory therapy * Conditions interfering with safe digital injections
Interventions
- DrugHyaluronidase (Hylenex)
Patients will receive monthly injections of hyaluronidase into 1 finger on each hand over a 28 week treatment period.
Location
- Medical University of South CarolinaCharleston, South Carolina