Scleroderma: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease that causes hardening of the skin, and sometimes internal organs, through excessive build-up of connective tissue. It usually starts with fingers turning white and blue in the cold (Raynaud’s), followed by swollen fingers and tight skin. Because the lungs, oesophagus and kidneys can be affected, regular follow-up is important.
Which doctor should I see for scleroderma?
For scleroderma you can first see: Internal Medicine or Dermatology or Rheumatology. In large hospitals the Rheumatology unit also deals with this. If you are not sure, a family doctor can refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of scleroderma?
- Fingers turning white and blue in the cold
- Swollen fingers and hardening of the skin
- Sores on the fingertips
- Difficulty swallowing and reflux
- Shortness of breath
What causes scleroderma?
The most common causes are listed below. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
- 1The immune system increasing connective tissue production
- 2Genetic tendency
- 3Some environmental exposures such as silica
When is it an emergency? Call 112 now
- Is there sudden high blood pressure, headache and reduced urine (kidney crisis)
- Is a fingertip turning black
- Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up
- Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg
- Are you struggling to breathe even at rest
What you can do at home
- Keep your hands and feet warm; stop smoking.
- Moisturise your skin regularly.
- Check your blood pressure regularly.
See a doctor if
- Finger swelling and skin hardening together with Raynaud’s
- Shortness of breath and difficulty swallowing
How long does it last and how is it treated?
It is a chronic disease; it is controlled with specific treatments depending on which organs are involved.
Who gets scleroderma?
- Women aged 30–50
How is it diagnosed?
Examination, ANA and specific antibodies, nailfold capillaroscopy, and lung and heart tests.
Can it be prevented?
- There is no known way to prevent it.
People also describe it as
- “The skin on my fingers has become hard”
Frequently asked questions
Which doctor should I see for scleroderma?
For scleroderma you can first see: Internal Medicine or Dermatology or Rheumatology. In large hospitals, the Rheumatology unit also deals with this. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of scleroderma?
Common symptoms: fingers turning white and blue in the cold; swollen fingers and hardening of the skin; sores on the fingertips; difficulty swallowing and reflux; shortness of breath. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.
What causes scleroderma?
The most common causes: the immune system increasing connective tissue production; genetic tendency; some environmental exposures such as silica. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
How long does scleroderma last and how is it treated?
It is a chronic disease; it is controlled with specific treatments depending on which organs are involved.
Who gets scleroderma?
It is more common in: women aged 30–50.
How is scleroderma diagnosed?
Examination, ANA and specific antibodies, nailfold capillaroscopy, and lung and heart tests.
Can scleroderma be prevented?
There is no known way to prevent it.
Is scleroderma contagious?
No, it is not contagious.
What is the difference between morphoea and scleroderma?
Morphoea is a localised form that affects only the skin; in systemic sclerosis internal organs can also be affected.
When is scleroderma an emergency?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is there sudden high blood pressure, headache and reduced urine (kidney crisis)?” “Is a fingertip turning black?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”
When should I see a doctor for scleroderma?
See a doctor: finger swelling and skin hardening together with Raynaud’s; shortness of breath and difficulty swallowing.
Similar complaints
Emergency numbers in Turkey
112: ambulance, emergency (free, 24/7, from any phone). 114: National Poison Information Centre. 182: appointment line for public hospitals (MHRS). Pharmacies on night duty (nöbetçi eczane) are posted on the door of every pharmacy.
Sources
This page is based on current information published by the official and independent bodies below and on our editorial principles. Last updated: . To report an error: contact us.
This page does not provide a medical diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you think it is an emergency, call 112 (Turkey’s free emergency number). For poisoning, call the National Poison Information Centre on 114.