June 2008
 
Spotlight

Know the Signs of Scleroderma

According to the Scleroderma Foundation, scleroderma (pronounced sclaire-row-DER-ma) is a non-contagious/non-infectious chronic disease that afflicts approximately 300,000 Americans—mostly women by a four-to-one ratio. Localized scleroderma is more common in children, whereas systemic scleroderma is more common in adults. Hardening of the skin as a result of collagen overproduction is a hallmark of systemic scleroderma, however, hardening of blood vessels and internal organs may also happen.

There are many symptoms of scleroderma, including:

• Blanching, blueness or redness of fingers and toes in response to heat and cold (Raynaud's phenomenon)
• Pain, stiffness and swelling of fingers and joints
• Skin thickening and shiny hands and forearm
• Hard skin
• Tight and mask-like facial skin
• Ulcerations on fingertips or toes

Learn everything you need to know about scleroderma.

The Health Nudge
Compared to 30 years ago, people who have sclerodema are living significantly longer and newer medications may extend lives even further. Between 1972 and 2001, the 10-year survival rate of people with systemic scleroderma improved from 54 percent to 66 percent. This increased survival rate can be attributed to the use of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which can improve the treatment of kidney problems that might arise from having scleroderma.

Health Experts Sound Off

• June is National Scleroderma Awareness Month from JC Jones MA, RN

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