A Case Report and Literature Review on Systemic Sclerosis Manifesting as Melena and Hematochezia.

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disorder that leads to progressive fibrosis and vascular dysfunction, frequently affecting the gastrointestinal tract with around 90% of patients experiencing gastrointestinal complications, with severe manifestations such as gastric antral vascular ectasia and rectal telangiectasia which lead to chronic bleeding and iron-deficiency anemia. This review and case report explore the pathophysiology of GI involvement in SSc, emphasizing fibrosis, microvascular damage, and dysmotility. It also highlights treatment options, including endoscopic interventions like argon plasma coagulation and pharmacological therapies.