Although scleroderma may be referred to as a single disease, it is really a symptom of a group of diseases. This eMedTV article discusses this condition in detail, including information about symptoms, subtypes, treatment options, and prognosis.
There are two main types of scleroderma. This eMedTV article describes both local and systemic scleroderma, and also includes information about the associated subtypes, which include morphea, linear (localized), limited, diffuse, and sine (systemic).
Unlike systemic scleroderma, localized scleroderma does not affect the internal organs. This eMedTV page describes this type of scleroderma in more detail, including how long it may last, possible symptoms, and areas of the body that may be affected.
Systemic scleroderma is a condition in which, as this eMedTV page explains, skin and tissue become progressively hard and thickened. This page also offers a detailed look at the associated subtypes, which include limited, diffuse, and sine.
Scleroderma causes, as this eMedTV resource explains, are still under investigation. However, possibilities include environmental factors, genetics, or abnormal immune activity, among other things. The condition is not inherited or transmittable.
Early symptoms of scleroderma will vary, depending on the type and subtype of the disease that a person has. This eMedTV article describes some early symptoms of various types, which usually affect the skin and the tissues beneath it.
Red patches of skin that thicken into firm, oval-shaped areas are one of the common scleroderma symptoms. This eMedTV article describes these and other symptoms of scleroderma in detail, which vary, depending on the type and subtype a person has.
When diagnosing scleroderma, a doctor considers your medical history and findings from your physical exam. This eMedTV Web page describes the diagnostic process in detail, which may include a skin biopsy and tests for certain antibodies.
Scleroderma treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and limiting damage caused by the disease. This page of the eMedTV library offers an in-depth look at different treatment options for various structures in the body and includes self-help tips.
This eMedTV page focuses on the link between scleroderma and your health, and offers tips to help make living with the disease easier. Outcomes are often based largely on a person's ability to follow his or her doctor's orders and to stay informed.
This eMedTV Web page discusses current scleroderma research studies that are improving our understanding of the disease. One study is focusing on the role of blood vessel malfunction, cell death, and autoimmunity as they relate to the condition.
This portion of the eMedTV library discusses areas of concern for people living with scleroderma and offers tips on overcoming or managing these things. For example, an occupational therapist can help make daily tasks easier to perform.
CREST is an acronym that spells out some of the common symptoms of systemic scleroderma. This selection from the eMedTV library goes into greater detail about these symptoms, and also includes information on the different types of scleroderma.
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