Is SSc a scleroderma?

Scleroderma is the hallmark feature of systemic sclerosis (SSc). SSc is a chronic multisystem disease characterized by widespread vascular dysfunction and progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs.

What is the life expectancy of systemic scleroderma?

People who have localized scleroderma may live an uninterrupted life with only minor symptom experiences and management. On the other hand, those diagnosed with an advanced and systemic version of the disease have a prognosis of anywhere from three to 15 years.

What is the most serious complication of scleroderma?

Kidney function: When scleroderma affects the kidneys, the result can be an increase in blood pressure as well as the leakage of protein into the urine. In its most serious form (called scleroderma renal crisis), a rapid increase in blood pressure may occur, resulting in kidney failure.

How is SSc diagnosed?

The diagnosis can be confirmed by the presence of certain autoantibodies in the blood as well as radiographic studies. Particularly, the ANA, or the antinuclear antibody test, is positive, but not always.

What is systemic sclerosis SSc?

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease which still poses a great challenge to clinicians. The most prominent feature of SSc is the process of progressive fibrosis resulting from the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components in different tissues and organs.

Can you live a full life with systemic sclerosis?

Every patient with systemic sclerosis is different, which makes predicting additional complications and life span nearly impossible. Some patients with systemic sclerosis never develop severe involvement of their internal organs and live relatively normal lives.

Which organ is most frequently affected in systemic sclerosis?

The most commonly involved part of the gastrointestinal tract in systemic scleroderma is the esophagus.

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