1. Scleroderma By: Taylor Thomason Period - 3

2. What is it?  Scleroderma [skleer-oh-DUR-muh], or systematic sclerosis, is a connective tissue disease that is generally classified as one of the auto immune rheumatic diseases.  (rheumatic diseases deal with joints and connective tissue as well)

3. Signs and Symptoms  It depends on which type you have so the symptoms may vary between them.  In some people it affects only the skin, by hardening, discoloration, and tightening.  Others have some deeper issues with the blood vessels and internal organs, this is a slightly more serious form of it.

4. The 2 Types  Localized scleroderma - is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system causes inflammation in the skin. The inflammation can trigger connective tissue cells to produce too much collagen, a fibrous protein that is a major part of many tissues. Excess collagen can lead to fibrosis, which is like scarring.  There are actually two different subcategories that go along with localized scleroderma, but most of them affect the skin and sometimes bone growth and joint problems. (Linear, Morphia etc.)

5. The 2 Types (cont.)  Systemic scleroderma(sclerosis) – is an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and internal organs.  Some symptoms that go along with it are Raynauds, fibrosis, sclerodactyly, calcinosis, ulcers, telangiectasia, and dysphagia.

6. Localized Scleroderma examples

7. Systematic Scleroderma Examples (narrowing of esophagus)

8. How to control it  As of now there isn’t a cure for Scleroderma, but there are treatments.  Physical and occupational therapy is recommended to keep the flexibility subpar.  Have a well-balanced diet and stay healthy so you can try to avoid any other discrepancies.

9. Advancements?  There hasn’t been anything major, but the Scleroderma Foundation is still working its way up to a cure or better treatment.

10. Government Policies, Insurance, Support?  The government doesn’t really have a role or policy with it considering its not as serious as some other diseases.  Insurance should cover most expenses.  There are support groups available if needed.

11. Citations  Starkebaum, Gordon A. "Scleroderma." Medline Plus. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 Nov. 2014. Web. 12 Nov. 2014..  Mayo Clinic Staff. "Scleroderma." Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2014. Web. 12 Nov. 2014..  Cassoobhoy, Arefa. "Scleroderma: Symptoms, Types, Causes and Related Conditions." WebMD. WebMD, 2014. Web. 12 Nov. 2014..