Scleroderma
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune condition characterized by chronic inflammation and tissue changes, predominantly affecting the skin and internal organs. While its exact cause remains elusive, scleroderma results in skin tightening and thickening, with the potential involvement of joints, muscles, and various vital organs.
Predominantly afflicting women aged 30 to 50, scleroderma can also manifest in children, albeit in a juvenile form. Although no cure exists, treatments are available to manage symptoms and enhance quality of life.
What are the common symptoms of scleroderma?
Scleroderma symptoms vary widely in severity, ranging from mild to life-threatening. One common early sign is Raynaud's phenomenon, marked by color changes in the fingers in response to cold temperatures, often accompanied by swelling, numbness, pain, or ulcers.
Additional symptoms depend on the extent of joint, muscle, and organ involvement, potentially affecting the heart, lungs, blood vessels, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Diagnosis hinges on clinical evaluation, specific blood tests, identification of scleroderma-associated autoantibodies, and imaging studies of affected organs.
What are the treatments of scleroderma?
Management of scleroderma entails addressing specific symptoms and complications.
Calcium channel blockers or PDE-5 inhibitors like sildenafil and tadalafil may alleviate symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon by improving circulation. Antacids or proton pump inhibitors can mitigate heartburn symptoms. While no approved medications target skin thickening, methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil may be employed early in the disease, particularly in the presence of joint, muscle, or lung involvement.
Mycophenolate is also effective in treating lung complications like interstitial lung disease. Furthermore, treatments for severe lung complications such as pulmonary arterial hypertension aim to relax constricted blood vessels and reduce high blood pressure.
How to live with scleroderma?
Individuals with scleroderma should adopt strategies to manage symptoms and enhance their quality of life. Measures such as keeping the body warm with layered clothing, protecting fingers and toes from injury, and maintaining skin hydration can alleviate discomfort associated with Raynaud's phenomenon.
Dietary modifications and lifestyle adjustments may help mitigate digestive issues like heartburn. Regular exercise and physical therapy promote joint flexibility while seeking emotional support from family, friends, or mental health professionals can aid in coping with potential mood disturbances.
Despite its challenges, individuals with scleroderma can lead fulfilling lives with proper management and support.
About Dr. Shalene Badhan
When it comes to managing rheumatologic conditions, empathy is as crucial as expertise. Dr. Shalene Badhan, our lead Rheumatologist and an Internal Medicine specialist, embodies both. Having been diagnosed with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis herself, Dr. Badhan brings a unique perspective to her practice, combining professional excellence with personal insight. Her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and daily management of autoimmune diseases allows her to connect with her patients on a profound level, offering not just medical advice but also understanding and solidarity.
