What Is Scleroderma Disease? Procedure & Treatment

Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin and connective tissues. It is characterized by hardening and thickening of the skin, and can also affect the internal organs. Scleroderma can be classified into two main types: limited cutaneous and diffuse cutaneous.

Limited cutaneous scleroderma is the milder form and affects only the skin on the face, hands, arms, and feet. The skin becomes tight and shiny, and can cause joint contractures, which are fixed and permanent bending of the joints. This form of scleroderma can progress slowly and may not affect internal organs.

Diffuse cutaneous scleroderma, on the other hand, affects the skin on a larger area of the body and can cause more severe symptoms, including internal organ involvement. This form of scleroderma can progress rapidly and cause significant damage to the internal organs.

The exact cause of scleroderma is not known, but Rheumatology Doctors believed it to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with a family history of autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop scleroderma. Women are also more likely to develop scleroderma than men.

The symptoms of scleroderma can vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Hardening and thickening of the skin
• Tight and shiny skin
• Swelling of the fingers and hands
• Raynaud’s phenomenon, which is a condition where the blood supply to the fingers and toes is reduced in response to cold temperatures or stress
• Gastrointestinal problems, such as heartburn and difficulty swallowing
• Respiratory problems, such as shortness of breath
• Kidney problems, such as high blood pressure and proteinuria (excess protein in the urine)

The diagnosis of scleroderma is made based on the patient’s symptoms, physical examination, and a series of tests, including:

• Blood tests: to check for high levels of antibodies and markers of inflammation
• Skin biopsy: to examine the skin for damage
• X-rays: to check for damage to the bones and joints
• Pulmonary function tests: to check for lung damage
• Echocardiogram: to check for heart damage
• Gastrointestinal tests: to check for damage to the digestive system

There is no cure for scleroderma, but treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent further damage. In India, one can consider looking for the best hospital for rheumatology in Bangalore, Mumbai, or Delhi as these cities provide cost-effective treatments.

Treatment options include:

• Medications: such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and swelling, antacids to relieve heartburn, and immunosuppressive drugs to reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of the disease
• Physical therapy: to improve joint mobility and reduce joint contractures
• Oxygen therapy: to help with breathing difficulties
• Skin care: to keep the skin moisturized and prevent cracking
• Occupational therapy: to help with activities of daily living

In severe cases of scleroderma, other treatments may be necessary, including:

• Dialysis: for kidney failure
• Oxygen therapy: for lung damage
• Heart medications: for heart damage

In addition to medical treatment, patients with scleroderma can benefit from support groups and counseling. Talking with other people with scleroderma can help patients feel less isolated and provide them with valuable information about the disease and its management.

Living with scleroderma can be challenging, but with proper medical care and support, most people with the disease are able to live full and productive lives. It is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare team to keep notified about their health.