Efficacy and Safety of Telitacicept in the Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis

This randomized, controlled clinical trial evaluates whether telitacicept — a biologic medication that targets two immune-signaling proteins (BAFF and APRIL) involved in inflammation and autoimmunity — can reduce skin thickening and slow disease progression in adults with early diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (a form of scleroderma that causes progressive skin hardening and internal organ involvement). Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), a standard immunosuppressive drug, will be used as background therapy in both groups. Adults aged 18–70 with a confirmed diagnosis of diffuse systemic sclerosis, disease duration of no more than 18 months from the first non-Raynaud symptom, and a modified Rodnan Skin Score of at least 10 may be eligible. Participation involves subcutaneous injections of telitacicept or standard care, regular clinic visits, and assessments of skin, lung, and overall disease status. This summary was generated with AI assistance and is intended to help patients understand the study in plain language.