Wellness Workshop | Scleroderma | Frank A. Vicari, MD, FACS, FAAP

Expert Author
Dr. Frank Vicari Surgeon (Pediatric) Park Ridge, IL

Frank A. Vicari, MD, FACS, FAAP, is a top pediatric plastic surgeon and craniofacial surgeon who lends his skills and expertise to serve patients at his private practice in Illinois. Moreover, he is Chief of Pediatric Plastic Surgery / Craniofacial Surgery at Advocate Children’s Hospital – Park Ridge in Park Ridge, IL.... more

Understanding Scleroderma: A Rare Autoimmune Condition

Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body, leading to excessive collagen production. Collagen, vital for healthy skin and connective tissue, becomes overabundant, causing tissue thickening. While scleroderma often affects the skin, it can impact organs, leading to severe complications.

Types of Scleroderma
  1. Localized Scleroderma: Primarily affects the skin in specific areas. Symptoms often include waxy, thick patches that rarely spread to other organs.
  2. Systemic Sclerosis: Involves skin and internal organs, including the lungs, heart, and digestive system. Subtypes include:
    • Diffuse Sclerosis: Widespread skin thickening and organ involvement.
    • Limited Sclerosis (CREST Syndrome): Focused on specific symptoms like Raynaud’s syndrome and skin changes.
    • Sine Sclerosis: Internal symptoms without skin involvement.
Symptoms and Complications

Common symptoms include joint pain, fatigue, thickened skin, and difficulty swallowing. In advanced cases, scleroderma can cause life-threatening issues like pulmonary hypertension, kidney failure, and heart complications.

Diagnosis and Management

Diagnosing scleroderma involves physical exams, imaging, and tests like biopsies or pulmonary function evaluations. Although there’s no cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms, including immunosuppressants, physical therapy, and skin treatments.

Living with Scleroderma

Living with scleroderma requires lifestyle adjustments and ongoing medical care. Regular checkups and early intervention for complications are essential. Support groups and professional guidance can help individuals manage the emotional and physical challenges of this condition.

For personalized care, consult a healthcare provider.

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