Definition:
Scleroderma is a widespread connective tissue disease that involves changes in the skin, blood vessels, muscles, and internal organs.
Alternative Names:
CREST syndrome; Progressive systemic sclerosis; Systemic sclerosis; Localized scleroderma
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The cause of scleroderma is unknown. People with this condition have a build up of a substance called collagen in the skin and other organs. This build up leads to the symptoms associated with the disease. The disease usually affects people 30 to 50 years old. Women get scleroderma more often than men do. Risk factors include occupational exposure to silica dust and polyvinyl chloride.
References:
Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. Harris ED Jr., Budd RC, Genovese MC, Firestein GS, Sargent JS, eds. Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2005. Clouse RE, Diamant NE. Esophageal Motor and Sensory Function and Motor Disorders of the Esophagus. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006: chap 41.
|