How do you know if you have localized scleroderma?

How do you know if you have localized scleroderma?

Skin-related signs and symptoms Early symptoms may include swelling and itchiness. Affected skin can become lighter or darker in color and may look shiny because of the tightness. Some people also experience small red spots, called telangiectasia, on their hands and face.

Is localized scleroderma life threatening?

In general, patients with limited scleroderma have a normal life expectancy. Some have problems with their GI tract, especially heartburn; severe Raynaud’s and musculoskeletal pain; and a small subset can develop pulmonary hypertension that can be life-threatening.

What is localized scleroderma?

Localized scleroderma is characterized by thickening of the skin from excessive collagen deposits. Collagen is a protein normally present in our skin that provides structural support. However, when too much collagen is made, the skin becomes stiff and hard.

What causes localized scleroderma?

The exact cause of juvenile localized scleroderma has not been found. Patients who have localized scleroderma are born with genetic (inherited) factors to have an overactive immune system. However, not all patients with these genetic predisposition develop the disease.

How common is localized scleroderma?

EPIDEMIOLOGY. Localized scleroderma is more frequent than systemic scleroderma but still a rare condition. In the general populcition where systemic disease is estimated to have an incidence of 0.45 to 1.9 cases per 100,000,33,34 the incidence of the localized sclerodermas is 2.7 cases per 100,000.

Is localized scleroderma an autoimmune disease?

Morphea is an autoimmune disease that causes sclerosis, or scarlike, changes to the skin. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system, which normally protects us from bacteria, viruses, and fungi, mistakenly attacks a person’s own body.

How is localized scleroderma treated?

There are multiple treatment options for active morphea; however, evidence in support of many of these therapies is limited. The majority of patients are managed with observation, topical medications, phototherapy, or systemic immunosuppressive therapy.

How do you treat localized scleroderma?

They include:

1. Medicated creams. Your doctor may prescribe a vitamin D cream, such as calcipotriene, to help soften the skin patches.
2. Light therapy. For severe or widespread morphea, treatment may include the use of ultraviolet light (phototherapy).
3. Oral medications.
4. Physical therapy.