Scleroderma means hard skin. It is a group of diseases that causes abnormal growth of connective tissue, the proteins that support your skin and organs. There are two main types. Localized scleroderma affects only your skin. Systemic scleroderma affects your blood vessels and internal organs, as well as your skin.
Symptoms of scleroderma include
- Calcium deposits in connective tissues
- Raynaud's phenomenon, narrowing of blood vessels in the hands or feet
- Swelling of the esophagus, the tube between your throat and stomach
- Thick, tight skin on your fingers
- Red spots on your hands and face
No one knows what causes scleroderma. It is more common in women. It can be mild or severe. There is no cure, but various treatments can relieve symptoms.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
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