What are some risk factors for scleroderma renal crisis?
• Early diffuse scleroderma (first 1–4 years after diagnosis).
• Tendon friction rubs.
• Corticosteroid (prednisone > 20 mg/day or prolonged low dose) or cyclosporine use.
• Anti-RNA polymerase III antibody (50%–60%).
Patients with risk factors for SRC should receive counseling regarding routine home blood pressure monitoring (daily or every other day) and be monitored closely with frequent follow-up evaluations and laboratory assessments for microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and renal dysfunction.
