Management of systemic sclerosis: British Society for Rheumatology guideline scope

This guideline will provide a practical roadmap for management of SSc that builds upon the previous treatment guideline to incorporate advances in evidence-based treatment and increased knowledge about assessment, classification and management. General approaches to management as well as treatment of specific complications will be covered, including lung, cardiac, renal and gastrointestinal tract disease, as well as RP, digital vasculopathy, skin manifestations, calcinosis and impact on quality of life. It will include guidance related to emerging approved therapies for interstitial lung disease and account for National Health Service England prescribing policies and national guidance relevant to SSc. The guideline will be developed using the methods and processes outlined in Creating Clinical Guidelines: Our Protocol. This development process to produce guidance, advice and recommendations for practice has National Institute for Health and Care Excellence accreditation. Lay Summary What does this mean for patients? SSc, often called scleroderma, is an uncommon but serious rheumatic disease. It affects not only the skin and joints, but also blood vessels and internal organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys and bowel. It can limit the ability to perform everyday activities and negatively affect quality of life. Guidelines developed by the British Society for Rheumatology provide a roadmap for diagnosing and treating people with SSc. This is necessary to ensure that the most up-to-date approach is followed and the safest and most effective treatment is given. This article describes the scope of the guideline for SSc that is being updated to incorporate recent new treatments and emerging evidence. Guideline revision will be undertaken by a working group including scleroderma experts, rheumatologists and other health professionals, together with patients and patient organization representation. The guideline will be developed using the methods and processes outlined in Creating Clinical Guidelines: Our Protocol. This development process to produce guidance, advice and recommendations for practice has National Institute for Health and Care Excellence accreditation.