CREST syndrome: a patient with very early diagnosis of systemic sclerosis (VEDOSS)

Background: Systemic sclerosis is a rare autoimmune disease that can rapidly progress to organ involvement. Very early diagnosis (VEDOSS) may allow timely intervention, yet some patients still develop severe complications. Case presentation: A 42-year-old woman presented with a 3-year history of arthritis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, skin thickening, dysphagia, weight loss, dyspnea, and digital ulcers. Exams revealed telangiectasias, sclerodactyly, calcinosis, restrictive spirometry, ILD on HRCT, and positive anti–Scl-70 antibodies. She initially received mycophenolate mofetil without improvement, followed by rituximab with clinical stabilization. Conclusions: This very early yet rapidly progressive systemic sclerosis case underscores the need for prompt recognition and individualized therapy, as organ damage may occur despite early management.