Back to Results
Scleroderma
Urgent
Scleroderma is a group of autoimmune diseases characterized by abnormal hardening and thickening of the skin and, in some forms, changes affecting connective tissues and internal organs. The disease can vary considerably between individuals. Some forms mainly affect the skin, while systemic forms may involve the digestive tract, lungs, kidneys, heart, or blood vessels. Symptoms may include skin tightening, changes in skin color, joint stiffness, cold-sensitive fingers, digestive problems, or symptoms related to internal-organ involvement.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Scleroderma requires specialist medical assessment because it can affect the skin, blood vessels, digestive tract, lungs, kidneys, and heart. Seek prompt care for worsening shortness of breath, chest symptoms, significant swallowing problems, new severe high blood pressure, or reduced urine output. Emergency assessment is needed for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, sudden neurological symptoms, severe hypertension, or rapidly worsening organ-related symptoms.
Symptoms
3
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Scleroderma is a group of autoimmune diseases characterized by abnormal hardening and thickening of the skin and, in some forms, changes affecting connective tissues and internal organs. The disease can vary considerably between individuals. Some forms mainly affect the skin, while systemic forms may involve the digestive tract, lungs, kidneys, heart, or blood vessels. Symptoms may include skin tightening, changes in skin color, joint stiffness, cold-sensitive fingers, digestive problems, or symptoms related to internal-organ involvement.
Symptoms 3
Bone Pain
Dry Eyes
Loss Of Speech
Causes 3
Scleroderma develops through abnormal immune activity that promotes inflammation and excessive production or accumulation of collagen and other fibrous tissue. The precise cause is not known. Genetic susceptibility may influence who develops the disease, while environmental or occupational exposures may contribute in some people. Different forms of scleroderma involve different patterns of immune activity and tissue changes, and the reasons why internal organs become affected in systemic disease are not fully understood.
Autoimmune Disorder
Genetics
Stress
Risk Factors
Risk varies according to the type of scleroderma. Factors that may be associated with increased risk include family history, other autoimmune disorders, genetic susceptibility, and certain environmental or occupational exposures. The disease is more common in women than men. Having an associated autoimmune condition or possible environmental exposure does not mean that scleroderma will necessarily develop.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on the medical history, physical examination, characteristic skin findings, and assessment for internal-organ involvement. Blood tests may identify autoimmune markers that support the diagnosis but do not establish it by themselves. Depending on symptoms, doctors may use lung function testing, chest imaging, heart evaluation, gastrointestinal studies, kidney tests, or other investigations. In selected cases, a skin biopsy or another tissue examination may help distinguish scleroderma from other disorders with similar features.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no established way to completely prevent scleroderma because its exact cause is unknown
Early recognition of symptoms and regular medical follow-up can help identify organ involvement before complications become severe
People with relevant occupational exposures should follow appropriate safety measures
Avoiding smoking and managing associated cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney, and other health problems may support overall health
Patients with established disease should follow individualized monitoring and treatment recommendations
Prevention Guidance
There is no established way to completely prevent scleroderma because its exact cause is unknown. Early recognition of symptoms and regular medical follow-up can help identify organ involvement before complications become severe. People with relevant occupational exposures should follow appropriate safety measures. Avoiding smoking and managing associated cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney, and other health problems may support overall health. Patients with established disease should follow individualized monitoring and treatment recommendations.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh Vegetables
Support overall health.
Omega-3 Foods
May help reduce inflammation.
Whole Grains
Provide balanced nutrition.
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods
May promote inflammation.
Excess Salt
May worsen some symptoms.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A chronic autoimmune disease causing skin thickening.
Skin tightening, stiffness and joint pain may occur.
Autoimmune and genetic factors contribute.
Clinical assessment and laboratory tests are used.
Yes, treatment can slow progression and relieve symptoms.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.