The gastrointestinal tract is often affected in patients with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). This can affect the patient's nutrition and quality of life.
(2) delayed gastric emptying and reduced antral distention with gastric fullness
(3) diffuse gastrointestinal dysmotility with delayed transit time
(4) small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
(5) chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction
(6) malabsorption
Over time the patient may develop malnutrition. Parenteral nutrition may be necessary since the enteral route may be inadequate, especially if there is malabsorption.
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