Scleroderma Overview Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Get a clear overview of Scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease. Learn about its key symptoms, causes, and the available treatment options for managing the condition.
Scleroderma is a rare but serious autoimmune disease that affects the skin and connective tissues. The word "scleroderma" comes from Greek, meaning "hard skin," which describes one of its most common symptoms—thickening and tightening of the skin. However, scleroderma can also affect internal organs, leading to complications if not managed properly.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with scleroderma, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But with the right information and care, many people with scleroderma lead fulfilling lives. Let’s explore what scleroderma is, its symptoms, causes, and available treatments.
What Is Scleroderma?
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation and excess collagen production. Collagen is a protein that gives structure to the skin and connective tissues. In scleroderma, too much collagen builds up, leading to thickening and hardening of the skin and sometimes affecting blood vessels and internal organs like the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive system.
There are two main types of scleroderma:
1. Localized Scleroderma – Affects only the skin, usually in patches or lines. It is milder and does not involve internal organs.
2. Systemic Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis) – A more severe form that affects the skin and internal organs. It is further divided into:
Limited Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis – Skin thickening occurs mainly in the hands, arms, face, and feet.
Diffuse Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis – Rapid and widespread skin thickening, often involving internal organs early in the disease.
Symptoms of Scleroderma
Symptoms vary depending on the type of scleroderma but may include:
Skin-Related Symptoms
• Thickened, tight, or shiny skin (especially on fingers, hands, and face)
• Red or dark patches on the skin
• Small calcium deposits under the skin (calcinosis)
• Sores or ulcers on fingertips (due to poor blood flow)
• Swelling and stiffness in fingers (especially in the morning)
Internal Organ Symptoms (Systemic Scleroderma)
• Raynaud’s phenomenon – Fingers or toes turn white, blue, or red in response to cold or stress due to narrowed blood vessels.
• Digestive problems – Acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Lung issues – Shortness of breath, dry cough, or pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of lung tissue).
• Heart problems – Irregular heartbeat or high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension).
• Kidney complications – High blood pressure or kidney failure in severe cases.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially skin thickening and Raynaud’s phenomenon, consult a doctor for proper evaluation.
Consult Top Doctors for Your Symptoms
What Causes Scleroderma?
The exact cause of scleroderma is unknown, but researchers believe it results from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors:
• Autoimmune Response – The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to excess collagen production.
• Genetic Factors – Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing scleroderma.
• Environmental Triggers – Exposure to certain chemicals (like silica or solvents) or viral infections may trigger the disease in susceptible individuals.
• Hormonal Influence – Women are more likely to develop scleroderma than men, suggesting hormones may play a role..
How Is Scleroderma Diagnosed?
Diagnosing scleroderma can be challenging because symptoms vary and overlap with other conditions. Doctors may use:
• Physical Examination – Checking for skin thickening, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and other signs.
• Blood Tests – To detect specific antibodies (like antiScl70 or anticentromere) linked to scleroderma.
• Skin Biopsy – A small skin sample is examined under a microscope for collagen buildup.
• Imaging Tests – X-rays, CT scans, or echocardiograms to check for organ involvement.
• Lung Function Tests – To assess breathing capacity if lung damage is suspected.
If you suspect scleroderma, early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications. You can book a consultation with a rheumatologist (a specialist in autoimmune diseases) through Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Treatment Options for Scleroderma
While there is no cure for scleroderma, treatments focus on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and preventing complications.
Medications
• Immunosuppressants – To reduce immune system activity (e.g., methotrexate, mycophenolate).
• Blood pressure medications – For Raynaud’s phenomenon or kidney issues (e.g., calcium channel blockers).
• Acid reflux medications – Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for digestive symptoms.
• Lung or heart medications – If organs are affected (e.g., pulmonary hypertension drugs).
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
• Moisturize skin regularly – To prevent dryness and cracking.
• Avoid smoking and cold temperatures – These worsen Raynaud’s symptoms.
• Exercise gently – Helps maintain joint flexibility and circulation.
• Eat small, frequent meals – To manage digestive issues.
• Stay hydrated and eat fiberrich foods – To prevent constipation.
Therapies
• Physical therapy – Improves mobility and reduces stiffness.
• Occupational therapy – Helps with daily tasks if hand movement is limited.
Living with Scleroderma: Tips for Better Management
Tips for better management of disease are:
1. Stay Informed – Learn about your condition and work closely with your healthcare team.
2. Monitor Symptoms – Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.
3. Join Support Groups – Connecting with others facing scleroderma can provide emotional support.
4. Practice Stress Management – Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help reduce stress, which may trigger flareups.
5. Follow a Balanced Diet – Nutrientrich foods support overall health.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical help if you notice:
• Sudden worsening of skin thickening
• Severe Raynaud’s attacks causing finger sores
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Unexplained high blood pressure
Early intervention can prevent serious complications.
Final Thoughts
Scleroderma is a complex condition, but with proper care and treatment, many people manage their symptoms effectively. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of scleroderma, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist.
For expert advice and personalized care, you can book an appointment with a rheumatologist on Apollo 24|7 today. Early diagnosis and treatment make a big difference in managing scleroderma and improving quality of life.
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Consult Top Rheumatologists
Dr. V Krishnamurthy
Rheumatologist
34 Years • MD, DM (Rheum) FRCP
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Cancer Centre Nandanam, Chennai
Dr. Ramineni Naga Tejaswini
Rheumatologist
3 Years • MBBS, DNB(Internal Medicine), DrNB ( Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology)
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills Hyderabad, Hyderabad
Dr. Zulkarnain
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS, PGDM, FFM
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Brig K Shanmuganandan
Rheumatologist
20 Years • MBBS, MD (Med.), DNB (Med.), Fellow (Rheuma.)
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(425+ Patients)
Dr. Suddhasatwya Chatterjee
Rheumatologist
10 Years • MBBS, DNB
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(100+ Patients)