Scleroderma Support Group
Scleroderma is a rare, chronic disease characterized by excessive deposits of collagen. Scleroderma affects the skin, and in more serious cases it can affect the blood vessels and internal organs. The most evident symptom is the hardening of the skin and associated scarring.
does anyone here take chemo for this disease to avoid rapid progression?
Chemo drugs are often called DMARDs - disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Cellcept/Mycophenolate Mofetil, Azathioprine/Imuran, Methotrexate, Cyclosporine are the typical DMARDs used for many autoimmune diseases.
The chemo dosage amounts for autoimmune diseases are MUCH LESS than the amount used for a cancer. For example, many people with autoimmune disease might take Methotrexate (MTX) at approximately 20mg once a week. For a cancer, Methotrexate would be used at around 1500mg. Autoimmune dosages are much less than for a cancer.
I learn new things daily about my DM/Scleroderma. This disease is fascinating.
You can read more about Scleroderma at www.Sclero.Org
I hope this helps. Best Wishes.