What is scleroderma and how is it treated?

What is scleroderma

sclerodermaScleroderma/NHS is a rare autoimmune disease that causes hard, hard patches to form on the skin. This sign gave the disease its name: in Greek, “scleroderma” means “hard skin”.

However, skin changes are not the only symptom of scleroderma.

The disease affects the connective tissue in general. And this is the most important part of the body: it forms the supporting frame (stroma) and the outer integument (dermis) of all internal organs, includes in the walls of blood vessels and muscles, including the heart, provides insulation of nerve fibers, is contained in the membranes brain.

Depending on how far the damage to the connective tissue has gone and which elements of the body have suffered the most, doctors distinguish several types of scleroderma.

What is scleroderma

Globally allocateScleroderma/NHS There are two main types of scleroderma: localized and systemic sclerosis. In turn, they also have different forms, which differ in symptoms and prognosis.

Localized scleroderma

This is the mildest form of the disease, in which only the skin is affected. It usually affects children, but can occur at any other age.

The two most common types of localized scleroderma are:

• Ring-shaped (morphea). In this case, the disease manifests itself in the form of discolored oval spots on the skin. Such areas are scattered throughout the body and may itch, shine, lose hair. Annular localized scleroderma often resolves on its own without treatment within a few years.
• Linear. Thickened areas form on the skin, similar to scars from a saber strike. Most often, linear scleroderma affects the face, scalp, legs, arms, and back. Sometimes it affects the bones and muscles. Like the annular shape, the linear shape can go away after a few years. But in some cases, it causes irreversible growth problems. For example, if a child has an affected arm or leg, it may not lengthen with age.

Systemic sclerosis

In this case, scleroderma affects not only the skin, but also the circulatory system and internal organs. This type most often affects women between the ages of 30 and 50. It is extremely rare in children.

Systemic sclerosis can be:

• Localized (limited skin). At the initial stage, this type manifests itself as Raynaud's disease - the so-called circulatory disorder, in which the fingers and toes turn white when the temperature drops. Then thickened red spots appear on the skin of the limbs and face. Later, the disease can affect the lungs and digestive system: there are problems with swallowing, heartburn, shortness of breath. Fortunately, this form of the disease responds well to symptomatic treatment.
• diffuse. In this case, skin changes can appear on any part of the body, and the disease itself develops, including in the internal organs. Those affected complain of constant fatigue, weight loss, stiffness and joint pain. When the disease reaches the lungs, heart or kidneys, the work of these organs is disrupted, and health problems can become even more serious if you do not see a doctor in time.

Where does scleroderma come from

Scleroderma is caused byScleroderma / Mayo Clinicthat the production of collagen increases in the body, and this protein that creates strong fibers begins to accumulate in the tissues. But what caused the abnormal production of this substance, the researchers have not yet figured out.

It seems that the process is associated with malfunctions in the immune system, so scleroderma is classified as an autoimmune disease. However, it is assumed that genetics also play a role (scleroderma is often inherited) and exposure to external factors. The triggers of the disease can be viral infections, taking certain medications, repeated contact with various chemicals.

How to understand that it is scleroderma

The diagnosis can be suggested by characteristic changes in the skin. However, because the disease takes many forms and affects many different parts of the body, it can be extremely difficult to diagnose.Scleroderma / Mayo Clinic. And only a doctor can do this.

Therefore, at the first suspicion of scleroderma, you should consult a therapist. The doctor will conduct an examination and may suggest that you pass blood test - to check the level of certain antibodies produced by the immune system. You will also need a skin test: a specialist will take a small sample of the affected skin and send it to a laboratory.

In addition, other tests may be needed, including ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans of the internal organs. They are needed to determine if the heart, digestive system, or lungs are affected.

After the examination, the therapist will prescribe treatment or give a referral to specialized specialists, such as a rheumatologist, cardiologist, pulmonologist.

How to treat scleroderma

Unfortunately, there is no magic pill for the disease.Scleroderma / Mayo Clinic. Treatment usually focuses on controlling symptoms and reducing the risk of possible complications.

For a person diagnosed with scleroderma, a doctor may prescribe the following medications (of course, depending on the symptoms):

• Topical tablets or creams that contain steroids. These remedies help reduce swelling and joint pain, soften hardened skin, and slow the development of new skin changes.
• Means against hypertension. These drugs dilate blood vessels and help prevent some lung and kidney problems, as well as alleviate Raynaud's disease.
• Immunosuppressants. These are drugs that suppress the excessive activity of the immune system.
• Tablets that reduce the acidity of the stomach. They help if the digestive system is affected and the person suffers from heartburn.
• Antibiotic ointments. They are prescribed if ulcers appear on the fingers due to Raynaud's disease.
• Painkillers. Including prescription, if damaged areas of the skin and joints hurt, and conventional painkillers based on paracetamol or ibuprofen do not help.

In addition, the doctor will recommendScleroderma / Mayo Clinic rethink your lifestyle

• Move more. Physical activity improves blood circulation, reduces stiffness, and maintains skin elasticity.
• Take care of your skin. Moisturizing creams and lotions for scleroderma are a must.
• Refuse hot showers and baths, as well as reduce contact with household chemicals. All this can irritate and dry the skin.
• Quit smoking. Nicotine constricts the blood vessels, which can exacerbate the symptoms of Raynaud's disease and further damage the lungs.
• Avoid foods that cause heartburn.
• Protect skin from frost and cold wind. Experts from the American medical organization Mayo Clinic adviseScleroderma / Mayo Clinic wear warm gloves, even if you are just going to take something out of the freezer.

Ekaterina Komissarova