The word “scleroderma” means hard skin in Greek, and the condition is characterized by the buildup of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the skin and other organs. The condition is also called systemic sclerosis because the fibrosis can affect organs other than the skin.
Subsequently, at what age is scleroderma usually diagnosed?
Age: Most localized types of scleroderma show up before age 40, and systemic types of scleroderma are typically diagnosed between ages 30 and 50.
Correspondingly, is scleroderma a terminal?
It is the most fatal of all the rheumatologic diseases. Systemic scleroderma is very unpredictable although most cases can be classified into one of four different general patterns of disease (see Classification).
Is scleroderma considered a rare disease?
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disorder characterized by abnormal thickening of the skin. Connective tissue is composed of collagen, which supports and binds other body tissues. There are several types of scleroderma.
Is scleroderma worse than lupus?
— Worse than in rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) have worse health-related quality of life than patients with other systemic rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a Korean study found.
Is systemic sclerosis related to multiple sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) has been increasingly reported in association with other autoimmune diseases not primary affected the nervous system. The coexistence of MS and systemic sclerosis (SSc) has been rarely described.
What are the first signs of scleroderma?
Scleroderma: Signs and symptoms
- Hard, thickening, or tight skin. This trait is what gives scleroderma its name. …
- Hair loss and less sweating. …
- Dry skin and itch. …
- Skin color changes. …
- Salt-and-pepper look to the skin. …
- Stiff joints and difficulty moving them. …
- Muscle shortening and weakness. …
- Loss of tissue beneath the skin.
What are the stages of scleroderma?
Cutaneous involvement has 3 phases: (1) edematous, (2) indurative, and (3) atrophic. Skin becomes thickened and tight.
What are the two types of scleroderma?
There are two main categories of scleroderma: localized and systemic. Each category is made up of several conditions. Localized scleroderma: often affects only the skin and not major organs.
What do scleroderma lesions look like?
In linear localized scleroderma, the sclerotic lesions appear as one or more discrete linear streaks and induration that can involve the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, as well as occasionally muscle and bone.
What foods should be avoided with scleroderma?
REFLUX/HEARTBURN: eat small frequent meals to avoid overfilling your stomach; avoid eating within 2-3 hours of bedtime; avoid foods that may aggravate symptoms such as citrus fruits, tomato products, greasy fried foods, coffee, garlic, onions, peppermint, gas-producing foods (such as raw peppers, beans, broccoli, raw …
What is the difference between CREST syndrome and scleroderma?
Some people have a type of scleroderma called CREST syndrome (or limited scleroderma). Unlike other types, which only affect the arms, legs, and face, this kind can involve your digestive tract. While less common, it can also lead to problems with your heart and lungs.
What is the difference between scleroderma and limited scleroderma?
While some varieties of scleroderma occur rapidly, signs and symptoms of limited scleroderma usually develop gradually. They include: Tight, hardened skin. In limited scleroderma, skin changes typically affect only the lower arms and legs, including fingers and toes, and sometimes the face and neck.
What is the life expectancy of a person with scleroderma?
People who have localized scleroderma may live an uninterrupted life with only minor symptom experiences and management. On the other hand, those diagnosed with an advanced and systemic version of the disease have a prognosis of anywhere from three to 15 years.