Scleroderma (Systematic Sclerosis)

Scleroderma, or systematic sclerosis, is a term used to describe a family of autoimmune diseases that cause a hardening of the skin and other tissues: blood vessels, muscles, and internal organs. It is based on the Greek words, “sclero” which translates to “hard” and “derma” which means “skin”. Its cause is unknown and there is currently no cure but it can be managed symptomatically.

The two major kinds are localized and systematic.

Localized scleroderma rarely spread, it only affects a few parts of the skin or muscles, and is relatively mild. On the other hand, systematic scleroderma affects many body parts such as the skin, lungs, stomach, heart, kidneys, muscle, joints, and others.