Prevalence and Risk Factors for Esophageal Strictures in Systemic Sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects up to 90% of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Chronic esophageal acid exposure can result in complications including the formation of esophageal strictures (ES). Proton pump inhibitors can alter gastric acid pH and improve GORD symptoms; however, there have been no recent studies evaluating the prevalence of SSc–ES since these medications became widely available. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of SSc–ES over time and identify risk factors associated with ES. Methods: Consecutive patients from the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study who met American College of Rheumatology/EULAR criteria for SSc were included. Clinica..