New trends in the treatment of scleroderma renal crisis

The main pathological changes observed in scleroderma kidney are edema and proliferation of intimal cells, glomerular changes with thickening and obliteration of arteries leading to decreased renal perfusion and increased renin release. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors are the cornerstone in the treatment of patients with scleroderma renal crisis. Statins are used in the prevention of primary and secondary cardiovascular events. These drugs control cell proliferation and may prevent the injury observed in scleroderma kidney.