The pandemic of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its consequences for health-care systems have had a profound influence on the management of chronic rheumatic illnesses, including systemic sclerosis (SSc). In this context, a 25-item anonymous e-survey was distributed on the Twitter and Facebook e-groups and pages of various scleroderma organisations and patient communities to assess the problems encountered by patients with SSc during the pandemic, with a focus on disease effects, drug procurement, continuity of medical care, and prevalent fears among patients. The most prevalent diagnosis among the 291 individuals was restricted systemic sclerosis. Many individuals encountered issues as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 46 requiring an increase in medications and 12 requiring hospitalisation for disease-related complications. More than one-third were using glucocorticoids or had underlying cardiovascular problems that would put them at risk for severe COVID-19. A large majority encountered difficulties in obtaining medications or suffered disruptions in physiotherapy sessions. One-quarter of those polled found it difficult to reach their expert, while another 7.2 percent were unable to do so. The most common worry was contracting COVID-19, followed by infection in the family and a flare-up of the condition. During the epidemic, the majority of respondents chose teleconsultations over hospital visits.
The patient survey results indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected many patients with SSc, which may result in worse outcomes in this population in the post pandemic era.
