Scleroderma is a medical condition characterized by the excessive and abnormal growth of connective tissue, leading to the hardening and tightening of the skin and other organs. It is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the body's immune system, causing it to mistakenly attack healthy tissue. The word "sclerodema" is derived from the Greek words "skleros" (meaning hard) and "derma" (meaning skin).
Scleroderma most commonly affects the skin, causing it to become thickened, shiny, and tight. It can also affect internal organs such as the digestive system, lungs, heart, and kidneys, leading to various complications. Symptoms of scleroderma may include skin thickening and hardening, joint pain and stiffness, Raynaud's phenomenon (fingers and toes turning white or blue in response to cold or stress), difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, chronic cough, and weight loss.
The exact cause of scleroderma is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. There are different types of scleroderma, including localized scleroderma which mainly affects the skin, and systemic scleroderma which affects the skin as well as other internal organs.
Treatment options for scleroderma mainly aim to manage symptoms, slow down the progression of the disease, and prevent complications. This may involve the use of medications to control inflammation and suppress the immune system, physical therapy to maintain joint mobility, occupational therapy to assist with daily activities, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms like Raynaud's phenomenon.
