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Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)
Alternate Names : CREST Syndrome, Progressive Systemic Sclerosis, Scleroderma
Definition Scleroderma is a diffuse connective tissue disease characterized by changes in the skin, blood vessels, skeletal muscles, and internal organs.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The cause of scleroderma is unknown. The disease may produce local or systemic symptoms. The course and severity of the disease varies widely in those affected.
Excess collagen deposits in the skin and other organs produce the symptoms. Damage to small blood vessels within the skin and affected organs also occurs. In the skin, ulceration, calcification, and changes in pigmentation may occur.
Systemic features may include fibrosis and degeneration of the heart, lungs, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.
The disease usually affects people 30 to 50 years old. Women are affected more often than men. Risk factors are occupational exposure to silica dust and polyvinyl chloride.
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• Definition
• Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Symptoms & Signs
• Prevention
• Diagnosis & Tests
• Treatment
• Prognosis
• Complications
• Support Groups
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Acute Kidney Failure
• Allergies
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
• Heart Failure
• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
• Malabsorption
• Raynaud's Phenomenon
Tests & Exams
• Antinuclear Antibody Panel
• Chest X-Ray
• ESR
• Rheumatoid Factor
• Skin Lesion Biopsy
• Urinalysis
Other Topics
• Fingers That Change Color
• Heartburn
• Systemic
• Wheezing
Review Date : 8/6/2003
Reviewed By : Megan E. B. Clowse, M.D., M.P.H., Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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