Evidence and consensus-based recommendations for non-pharmacological treatment of fatigue, hand function loss, Raynaud's phenomenon, and digital ulcers in patients with systemic sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: SSc is a complex CTD affecting mental and physical health. Fatigue, hand function loss, and RP are the most prevalent disease-specific symptoms of systemic sclerosis. This study aimed to develop consensus and evidence-based recommendations for non-pharmacological treatment of these symptoms. Methods: A multidisciplinary task force was installed comprising 20 Dutch experts. After agreeing on the method for formulating the recommendations, clinically relevant questions about patient education and treatments were inventoried. During a face-to-face task force meeting, draft recommendations were generated through a systematically structured discussion, following the nominal group technique. To support the recommendations, an extensive literature search was conducted in MEDLINE and six other databases until September 2020, and 20 key systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and published recommendations were selected. Moreover, 13 Dutch medical specialists were consulted on non-pharmacological advice regarding RP and digital ulcers. For each recommendation, the level of evidence and the level of agreement was determined. Results: Forty-one evidence and consensus-based recommendations were developed, and 34, concerning treatments and patient education of fatigue, hand function loss, and RP/digital ulcers-related problems, were approved by the task force. Conclusions: These 34 recommendations provide guidance on non-pharmacological treatment of three of the most frequently described symptoms in patients with systemic sclerosis. The proposed recommendations can guide referrals to health professionals, inform the content of non-pharmacological interventions, and can be used in the development of national and international postgraduate educational offerings.