The effect of rituximab on systemic sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Skin fibrosis is a complication of the multifaceted and difficult condition known as systemic sclerosis (SSc). The interstitial lungs disease (ILD), which is a common consequence, has a worse prognosis. Although debates concerning its effectiveness and toxicity, cyclophosphamide is regarded as the gold standard for treating this condition. Furthermore, research employing the medication rituximab (RTX) has indicated that this treatment option could be beneficial. Objectives: The goal of this research was to evaluate the available scientific data on the impact of RTX on SSc. Methods: Clinical trials (CTs) investigating the application of RTX in SSc, published up to 2022, and were included in a systematic review (SR). Using methodical searching in academic databases employing a predetermined research methodology, the articles were located. SCIENCE DIRECT, SCOPUS, SCIELO, LILACS, PUBMED, , COCHRANE, WHOLIS, EMBASE, PAHO, and WEB OF SCIENCE were among the resources examined. A manually searching was done as well. Through using Jadad score, the Risk of Bias Tool (RoB 2.0), and the Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Trials - of Treatments tools, the technical quality of the articles was assessed (ROBINS-I). Utilizing Review Manager, a meta-analysis of the randomized CTs had been carried out