Abstract
The Influence of Gender and Hormonal Factors on Disease Severity in Systemic Sclerosis: A Prospective Study
Author(s): Ethan White*Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare but serious autoimmune disease characterized by skin and internal organ fibrosis. Epidemiological studies suggest that women are more frequently affected by SSc, and disease severity often varies with hormonal status. This prospective cohort study investigates the impact of gender and hormonal factors, such as estrogen and testosterone levels, on the disease course and severity of SSc. Our findings reveal that women, particularly those of childbearing age, experience more severe skin and organ involvement, potentially exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations. The study suggests that hormonal therapies could play a role in modulating disease progression and improving outcomes in female patients with SSc.