Gastrointestinal complications of systemic sclerosis

Core Tip

Core tip: Although often overlooked by clinicians, the gastrointestinal tract is the most commonly damaged system in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis. Virtually all parts of the gastrointestinal tract can be involved, although the esophagus is the most frequently reported. The mechanisms of gastrointestinal tract involvement have not been clarified; however, vascular damage, excessive accumulation of collagen, and immunological abnormalities may play a role because they are the most frequent histological findings in biopsies and autopsies. Non-specific symptoms, including dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distension are common complaints. Although supportive and symptomatic treatment is the main therapeutic strategy for systemic sclerosis, early diagnosis is critical for improving patient prognosis.