• Localized scleroderma mainly affects the skin. There are two types of localized scleroderma:
  • Morphia (hard, oval shaped patches on the skin. The patches usually are whitish with a purplish ring around them.)
  • Linear (lines or streaks of thickened skin in areas such as the arms, legs or forehead.)
• Generalized scleroderma may affect many parts of the body. There are two types of generalized scleroderma:
  • Limited scleroderma occurs gradually and affects the skin and later may affect internal organs, such as esophagus, lungs or intestines.
  • Diffuse scleroderma develops more suddenly, with skin thickening throughout the body. Internal organs can also be affected.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Skin changes:
  • Hardening and thickening
  • Ulcers or sores on fingers
  • Loss of hair over affected area
  • Change in skin color
  • Swelling/puffiness in fingers/toes
  • Skin appears shiny.
  • Usually skin creases disappear.
• Difficulty making a fist
• Sclerodactyly (hardness of toes/hands)
• Raynaud's Phenomenon:
  • Poor blood flow to extremities.
  • Extremities are sensitive to cold caused by emotional stress.
  • Telangiectasia (tiny blood vessels seen at the surface of the skin).
  • Calcinosis (white calcium lumps under the skin)
• Arthritis and muscle weakness
• Sjogren's syndrome (dryness of eyes/mouth)
• Digestive problems
• Heart and lung problems
• Kidney problems

What Causes It?

• Medications: NSAIDs/aspirin for inflammation and pain, steroids to treat muscle/joint problems, antacids to reduce heartburn, medication to control blood pressure and to increase blood flow
• Exercise to improve overall health.
• Joint protection to reduce stress on joints.
• Skin protection to protect skin from injury.
• Stress management - common with chronic disease.

Who Is At Risk?