Tocilizumab in systemic sclerosis treatment: a case report

INTRODUCTION: In the United States, tocilizumab was approved for the treatment of scleroderma and scleroderma-related interstitial lung disease because it inhibited the decrease in forced expiratory volume, so scleroderma treatment is entering a new era. CASE PRESENTATION: A 44-year-old female patient with systemic scleroderma, diagnosed 6 years ago, presented with breathlessness over the last week. The modified Rodnan’s score was 18. Tocilizumab 162 mg subcutaneously once every 2 weeks was prescribed. After 4 weeks, a decrease in Rodnan score was observed. Tocilizumab was stopped after 6 months without any side effects due to treatment. DISCUSSION: Treatment with tocilizumab may maintain lung function nearly unchanged. Its effect on perfecting skin fibrosis seems promising. Tocilizumab may be fairly safe to use. CONCLUSION: Tocilizumab may be effective and fairly safe to use. Further exploration is anticipated to advance a new period of systemic sclerosis treatment.