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What Is Scleroderma?

Scleroderma: Not a Single Disease

• Localized scleroderma mainly affects the skin. There are two types of localized scleroderma:
  • Morphia (hard, oval shaped patches on the skin. The patches usually are whitish with a purplish ring around them.)
  • Linear (lines or streaks of thickened skin in areas such as the arms, legs or forehead.)
• Generalized scleroderma may affect many parts of the body. There are two types of generalized scleroderma:
  • Limited scleroderma occurs gradually and affects the skin and later may affect internal organs, such as esophagus, lungs or intestines.
  • Diffuse scleroderma develops more suddenly, with skin thickening throughout the body. Internal organs can also be affected.

Hardening and thickening

Ulcers or sores on fingers

Loss of hair over affected area

Change in skin color

Swelling/puffiness in fingers/toes

Skin appears shiny.

Usually skin creases disappear.

Difficulty making a fist

Sclerodactyly (hardness of toes/hands)

Poor blood flow to extremities.

Extremities are sensitive to cold caused by emotional stress.

Telangiectasia (tiny blood vessels seen at the surface of the skin).

Calcinosis (white calcium lumps under the skin)

Arthritis and muscle weakness

Sjogren's syndrome (dryness of eyes/mouth)

Digestive problems

Heart and lung problems

Kidney problems

• Medications: NSAIDs/aspirin for inflammation and pain, steroids to treat muscle/joint problems, antacids to reduce heartburn, medication to control blood pressure and to increase blood flow
• Exercise to improve overall health.
• Joint protection to reduce stress on joints.
• Skin protection to protect skin from injury.
• Stress management - common with chronic disease.