Treatment of Progressive Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma, PSS) with a New Drug Influencing Connective Tissue

Cyclofenil is a new diphenyl ethylene derivative related to stilboestrol without oestrogenicity but with marked effects on connective tissue metabolism. The drug has been tested, in a daily dose of 200 mgX3, in six patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) to analyze the expected beneficial effects on the PSS symptoms. The typical skin hardness, joint and muscle rigidity, and reduced breathing capacity were improved to varying degrees. The only side-effect was a slight transient liver enzyme elevation in 1 out of 6 patients. A slight increase was found in urinary calcium and hydroxyproline excretion. In several cases serum calcium, cholesterol, triglyceride and in some cases the serum uric acid levels were decreased. The ANF titres diminished to varying degrees in 4 out of 6 patients. These results indicate that further detailed clinical and laboratory studies on the therapeutic potential of cyclofenil in PSS and other diseases affecting connective tissue seem to be justified.