Multiple sclerosis and systemic sclerosis: efficacy of interferon beta on skin lesions

摘要

We report the clinical observation of interferon beta-1a effectiveness in the treatment of skin lesions in a patient affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) and systemic sclerosis (SSc), suggesting a common pathogenesis.A 51-year-old woman was admitted to the department of neurology of the "Federico II" University with a 5-day history of muscle weakness and sensory disturbance in her right leg preceded by optic neuritis. Diagnosis of MS, according to the McDonald criteria was carried out; the Expanded Examination Rating Scale (EDSS) was 3.5.A trial of intravenous methylprednisolone resulted in relief of the patient's symptoms. The neurological status improved to EDSS 1.0. After 30 days, the patient started the interferon (IFN) beta-1alpha treatment to prevent relapses. To date, the patient shows no relevant neurological alterations and is relapse-free.