Anifrolumab is a medication being studied for treating systemic sclerosis (SSc), a rare autoimmune disease that causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. This medication works by targeting a protein involved in the immune system response. It is given to patients alongside their standard therapy to help manage the signs and symptoms of systemic sclerosis.

Standard therapy refers to the usual treatments that patients with systemic sclerosis may already be receiving for their condition, which can continue during the trial. These treatments may include medications to help manage specific symptoms of the disease.

Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) – A chronic autoimmune disease that causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. It occurs when the body produces too much collagen, leading to tissue thickening. The condition can affect multiple body systems, including skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. SSc commonly begins with skin changes in the hands and face, and may progress to affect larger areas of the body. The disease can present in two main forms: limited cutaneous, where skin involvement is mainly restricted to hands, arms, and face, or diffuse cutaneous, where skin involvement is more widespread.

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) – A group of disorders that cause inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue. The condition affects the interstitium, which is the tissue and space around the air sacs of the lungs. Over time, the scarring causes the lung tissue to become stiff, making it increasingly difficult to breathe. The scarring process typically develops gradually, causing progressive shortening of breath and dry cough.

Autoimmune Disease – A condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. The immune system fails to recognize the body’s normal cells as “self” and creates antibodies to attack them. These disorders can affect any part of the body, causing inflammation and tissue damage. The symptoms vary depending on which body parts are targeted by the immune system.