Medical Health Encyclopedia

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) pump therapy. During this therapy, a band wrapped around the arm is inflated and deflated. This helps stimulate blood flow. Experts are studying the use of IPC pump therapy for patients with ulcers on their arms. Medications usually do not work for such ulcers, and amputation is usually the only option for such patients. However, a small pilot study has shown that IPC pump therapy for an average of 5 hours per day healed 96% of ulcers.

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg).  Animal studies have found that administration of IVIg, an agent that modifies the immune system, may reduce the severity of scleroderma and other autoimmune diseases. Early studies in patients with scleroderma found it can improve skin fibrosis.

Alternative Treatments and Diet

Some patients avoid high-fiber diets (which include fruits and vegetables) and so their diets may lack sufficient nutrients. Supplements, then, may be needed, but patients would do best to consult someone experienced in dietary conditions associated with scleroderma. Because of reports that oxygen free radicals may play a role in the development of sclerosis, some researchers recommend taking antioxidant supplements (e.g., selenium, beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and methionine). Studies have not reported much benefit from such supplements. In general, however, there have not been long-term trials and some may have been started too late in the course of the disease to have much effect.

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Because of the difficulty of the disease, many patients are tempted to try high-dose supplements or other alternative treatments. It is very important to note that this approach is not without its hazards.