Early Systemic Sclerosis Presenting as Digital Tip Gangrene

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic connective tissue disease characterized by vasculitis, fibrosis, and autoimmunity. Based on the skin involvement, it is classified into diffuse cutaneous SSc and limited cutaneous SSc. We describe a patient presenting with bilateral digital tip gangrene after lifting heavy weights intermittently as the first symptom. On further investigation, he was diagnosed with SSc, making it a rare presenting complaint.

Keywords

• anti-scl-70 antibodies
• antinuclear antibodies
• digital tip gangrene
• pressure injury
• systemic sclerosis