Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma)

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Raynaud's phenomenon CREST syndrome Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma)

• Blanching, blueness, or redness of fingers and toes in response to heat and cold (Raynaud's phenomenon)
• Pain, stiffness, and swelling of fingers and joints
• Skin thickening and shiny hands and forearm
• Skin is hard
• Tight and mask-like facial skin
• Ulcerations on fingertips or toes
• Esophageal reflux or heartburn
• Difficulty swallowing
• Bloating after meals
• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Shortness of breath

• Wrist pain
• Wheezing
• Skin, abnormally dark or light
• Joint pain
• Hair loss
• Eye burning, itching, and discharge

Examination of the skin may show tightness, thickening, and hardening.

• The ESR is elevated.
• The rheumatoid factor can be elevated.
• An antinuclear antibody test is usually positive.
• Urinalysis can show protein and microscopic blood.
• A chest X-ray may show fibrosis.
• Pulmonary function studies often show restrictive lung disease.
• A skin biopsy may also be performed.

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