Antimalarial and immunosuppressive treatments are rarely required for skin involvement alone. Any disease in which the immune system is either overactive or underactive is a potential applicant for psychological techniques. This systemic disease of unknown origin is believed to have an autoimmune basis. Many treatments have been suggested, but at this point, none has clearly emerged as effective. Physical therapy is important to maintain flexibility and mobility.
Psychological techniques have a potential that remains largely unexplored.
The major involvement of the immune system, the use of pain control techniques, and help with motivation and depression are likely applications. Raynaud's phenomenon is often part of the disorder, and here the psychological techniques have a solid track record. This disorder of circulation can make the entire body, but especially the extremities, excruciatingly vulnerable to cold and the formation of skin ulcers. Both hypnosis and biofeedback are quite effective. Control of blood flow is generally one of the easiest physiological dimensions to take charge of.