An Autoimmune Project by: Evan Moore and Courtney Blue Honors Anatomy and Physiology
It is a build up of collagen that effects blood vessels, muscles, skin, and internal organs. Scleroderma is a disease that also affects connective tissues. The cause of this condition is unknown, but related to people being around silica dust and polyvinyl chloride. Usually seen in people Mostly women.
In Scleroderma cell’s in the body produce too much collagen because it thinks there is an injury this excess collagen hardens preventing normal bodily functions.
First sign is Reynaud's Phenomenon where blood vessels shrink in toes, fingers, ears, and nose. Areas are sensitive to temperature and change colors Fingers become hard and puffy Ulcers on fingertips and toes Small white lumps beneath skin that sometimes ooze white pus.
There are currently no cures for scleroderma, but there are many treatments. Some treatments decrease the activity of the immune system, while others are used to improve motion of the bowels. Scleroderma varies greatly with patients, so the treatments have a lot of variation.
Scleroderma is rare. Only 75,000 to 100,000 people in the US have it. 75% of patients are women. The condition affects adults and children, but it is most common in women aged 30 to 50. There are several types of scleroderma. The two main types are localized (which affects the skin on the face, hands and feet) and systemic (which can also affect blood vessels and major internal organs).
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