Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissue in the body. It is estimated that approximately 300,000 people in the United States have scleroderma.

It can affect any race, gender or age, but women are four times more likely to develop the disease than men. Scleroderma occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, causing an overproduction of collagen and other connective tissue proteins that lead to tissue damage and thickening of the skin and internal organs.

The cause of scleroderma is unknown, and there is no known cure. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage the symptoms and prevent further organ damage.

Symptoms of Scleroderma

The symptoms of scleroderma can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the disease, but they generally fall into two categories: localized and systemic.

Localized scleroderma affects only the skin and usually presents as patches of thickened, tight skin. Systemic scleroderma affects the skin and internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive system.

Localized Scleroderma Symptoms

Localized scleroderma primarily affects the skin and may not cause any other symptoms. Symptoms of localized scleroderma include:.

Thickened and tight skin
Discoloration or darkening of the skin
Loss of hair on the affected area
Lesions or small sores on the affected area
Stiffness in the affected area

Systemic Scleroderma Symptoms

Systemic scleroderma not only affects the skin but also the organs such as the kidneys, lungs, heart, and digestive system. Symptoms of systemic scleroderma may include:.

Skin changes similar to localized scleroderma
Fingers or toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or in emotional stress
Swollen or puffy fingers or hands
Pain and stiffness in the joints
Shortness of breath
Digestive problems such as acid reflux or difficulty swallowing
Weight loss

Risk Factors of Scleroderma

The cause of scleroderma is unknown, but studies suggest that certain factors may increase your risk of developing the disease.

Scleroderma typically occurs between the ages of 30 and 50, and women are four times more likely to develop scleroderma than men. Other risk factors include:.

Family history of autoimmune disease
Hepatitis C infection
Exposure to silica dust or organic solvents

Diagnosis of Scleroderma

Diagnosing scleroderma can be challenging as the symptoms of the disease can be similar to other autoimmune diseases.

There is no single test to diagnose scleroderma, and the diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical history, physical exam, and a series of tests. Some of the diagnostic tests for scleroderma include:.

Blood tests to check for the presence of antibodies associated with scleroderma
Skin biopsy to look for thickened skin and other changes
X-rays and other imaging tests to look for changes in the lungs and other organs
Pulmonary function tests to check lung function
Gastrointestinal tests to check for digestive problems

Treatment of Scleroderma

There is no known cure for scleroderma, and treatment usually focuses on managing the symptoms, preventing further organ damage, and improving quality of life.

The treatment plan for scleroderma may vary depending on the type and severity of the disease and the organs affected. Some of the treatment options for scleroderma include:.

Medications to manage symptoms such as pain, inflammation, and acid reflux
Immunosuppressive drugs to slow down or prevent the progression of the disease
Physical therapy and exercise to improve joint mobility and strength
Occupational therapy to help with activities of daily living
Pulmonary rehabilitation to improve lung function
Dietary changes to prevent or manage digestive problems
Surgery to repair damaged organs

We Can Beat It: Scleroderma Awareness

Although there is no known cure for scleroderma, there is hope. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent further organ damage. Awareness and education are key to improving the lives of people with scleroderma.

The Scleroderma Foundation is an excellent resource for individuals with scleroderma and their families. The foundation provides support, information, and advocacy for scleroderma patients. They also fund research to find a cure for the disease. By raising awareness and supporting research, we can beat scleroderma.

Conclusion

Scleroderma is a rare and sometimes debilitating disease of the connective tissue. Although there is no known cure for the disease, it can be managed with early diagnosis and treatment.

The symptoms of scleroderma can vary widely, but early intervention can help prevent further organ damage. By raising awareness and supporting research, we can improve the lives of people with scleroderma and work towards finding a cure for the disease.