Juvenile Scleroderma

What is scleroderma?

Localized scleroderma is an autoimmune condition that results in thickening and tightening of the skin. This is caused by inflammation in the skin that results in a production of too much collagen, a fibrous protein that is normally present in smaller amounts in many tissues, and this excess collagen can lead to fibrosis or scarring. 

Treatment

Treatment for localized scleroderma includes topical therapies and systemic therapies. The goal for systemic therapies is to control the inflammation trigger by suppressing the immune system from being over active. Additional imaging and consultation with other specialists may be necessary to help manage the condition. 

Systemic scleroderma

Systemic scleroderma is an autoimmune condition that results in thickening and tightening of the skin, in addition to inflammation and scarring of blood vessels and internal organs including the heart, lungs, intestines and other areas. The cause of scleroderma is unknown.