Systemic sclerosis (Positive Anti-Ro 52 and Anti-Centromere antibodies) in a patient after COVID-19 infection: a rare case report

Abstract

Introduction and Importance: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the source of COVID-19, a respiratory disease. It typically manifests as restricted pulmonary symptoms, but autoimmune dysfunction might occasionally show up. A COVID-19 infection may cause a multi-system connective tissue disease known as systemic sclerosis (SSc). In patients who recovered from COVID-19, autoimmunity may have multiple underlying causes. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 68-year-old female who, one month after contracting COVID-19, complained of dyspnea and muscle exhaustion. The patient was treated for post-COVID syndrome. She developed symptoms of chronic dyspnea, pale fingers, pursed lips, trouble chewing and swallowing, and muscle weakness after seven weeks. A chest HRCT (High-Resolution Computerised Tomography) scan suggested interstitial lung disease. Clinical characteristics and an autoantibody profile containing anti-Ro 52 and anti-centromere antibodies pointed towards systemic sclerosis. She was treated with azathioprine and prednisolone at a reduced dosage, and she is now stable with monthly follow-ups. Clinical Discussion: COVID-19 might induce cytokine storms and immunological dysregulation, ultimately culminating in autoimmune manifestations. Several autoantibodies are observed in autoimmune illnesses in post-COVID-19 infection patients. Our situation is distinct because systemic sclerosis following a COVID-19 infection is not commonly seen as an autoimmune illness. Conclusion: The number of patients with rare autoimmune diseases, like systemic sclerosis, following COVID-19 has been rising. Therefore, we should consider the possibility of autoimmune disease when looking into a patient who presents strangely or has developed new symptoms after COVID and should contact the patient’s management immediately.