Scleroderma
A systemic condition that can affect the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. Here is what to know about recognition, care, and what to expect.
Educational use only
Not medical advice. Always consult your clinician for personal medical decisions.
- What is scleroderma?
-
Systemic sclerosis, commonly called scleroderma, is a condition in which the immune system triggers excess collagen production. That causes skin hardening which can also affect blood vessels and internal organs, including the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive tract.
- How is it different from morphea?
-
The key distinction is systemic involvement. Morphea stays in the skin. Scleroderma can affect internal systems, which is why early diagnosis, specialist involvement, and regular monitoring matter so much here.
- Why early recognition matters
-
Raynaud's phenomenon — colour changes in the fingers with cold or stress — is often an early sign. Skin tightening, especially on the hands and face, is another early indicator.
If you notice either, ask your doctor about a referral to a sclerosing skin disease specialist. Getting to the right clinician early changes what is possible later.
A note from our specialist
Content from the physician's recorded explanation will be added here.