Scleroderma face. After a Scleroderma, a Greek word meaning “hard skin,” is a disease in which affected tissue hardens or thickens in response to the overproduction and accumulation of collagen, connective tissue that supports the skin and internal organs. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune inflammatory condition. Sometimes people may have difficulty swallowing food and water. Linear Scleroderma. The centers of the patches are ivory, with violet borders. Use humidifiers to moisten the air in your home in colder winter climates. In some cases, it may also affect the internal organs and blood vessels. The hard, thick skin can feel anchored in place. May 2, 2024 7:30 PM. Collagen is a protein normally present in our skin that provides structural support. Jan 10, 2022 · Scleroderma is a rare, autoimmune connective tissue and rheumatic disease that primarily causes inflammation in the skin, and can lead to inflammation in other parts of the body, according to the Jan 3, 2024 · Morphea scleroderma is a skin condition characterized by hardened, discolored, and thickened patches of skin on various areas of the body without internal organ involvement. Aug 5, 2022 · Symptoms of systemic scleroderma that affect your child’s skin and tissues include: Loss of the skin’s ability to stretch. ”. PRS usually affects one side of the face as shown here. The symptoms of scleroderma may vary and can look quite different in each person. Moisturize dry skin. The face is the most common site for the linear type of morphea with fibrosed tissue appearing as a sabre cut (en coup de sabre) resulting in facial hemiatrophy mimicking Parry–Romberg syndrome . Localized scleroderma is characterized by a thickening of the skin from excessive collagen deposits []. In scleroderma, researchers believe the Oct 23, 2017 · Scleroderma is a chronic disease characterized by skin hardness (from the Greek words sklēros = hard, and derma = skin). I am in full remission now with no skin tightening. Many people who have scleroderma lead normal—or almost normal—lives. May 30, 2023 · The predominant form of scleroderma in children is juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS), also sometimes called morphea, which principally involves the skin, fascia, muscle, and bone [ 1-3 ]. Feb 27, 2024 · The symptoms of systemic scleroderma may include: Skin thickening on your fingers, hands, face, lower arms, and shins. The following fact Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center They’ll test the skin on your hand, forearm, both upper arms, thigh, leg, both feet, face, chest, and abdomen. Systemic sclerosis is characterized by skin and internal organs fibrosis. While there are different types of scleroderma, each with its own set of symptoms, the most visible manifestation of this disease is skin hardening and tightening. Cosmetically and functionally, linear scleroderma is much more . There are three types of scleroedema. Jon LaPook, speaking about his sister Gay in one of his final interviews. There are two main forms of localized scleroderma: morphea and linear scleroderma. Thanks to the passion and dedication of countless volunteers, scientists, and supporters, we’re advancing our mission faster than ever. Some people develop 1 or 2 patches of hard, thick skin. Localized scleroderma is characterized by thickening of the skin from excessive collagen deposits. Started early, treatments like phototherapy (light Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease in which the body produces too much collagen, a fibrous protein that is a major component of the body’s connective tissues, including the skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and cartilage. Apply soothing lotions such as raw coconut oil or shea butter. There are medications that may help the situation and these are used in conjunction with Some types of scleroderma affect only the skin, while others affect the whole body. Doctors diagnose scleroderma using your medical history, a physical exam, lab tests, and a skin biopsy. Jun 21, 2022 · Scleroderma is a chronic, autoimmune connective tissue disease that causes changes in the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs due to excess collagen production. The neurologic condition was detected mostly in the first decade after the diagnosis or scleroderma diagnosis — at a mean of 8. It is also found in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, and other organs. Many patients with localized morphea improve spontaneously (without treatment). It can affect bones and muscles. It is unusual for morphea to spread elsewhere in the body, and it is rare for morphea to invade past the skin and cause internal organ damage. When washing, you want to be gentle. The connective tissue of people with scleroderma has too much Linear scleroderma tends to start in childhood. The disease affects women three to Aug 16, 2017 · Skin thickening in this patient extends to the shoulders and chest. Now, a lot of people have heartburn. Scleroderma can make the skin very dry. Occasionally it affects underlying bone and muscle. 5, with only five juvenile cases reported. Scleroderma: Tightening of the skin in the face, with a characteristic beaklike facies and paucity of wrinkles. Blood vessels lose the ability to return to their normal size between attacks, which leads to a reduced supply of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of oral manifestations and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) patients compared with healthy people. This is most consistent with a diagnosis of diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, unlike limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis which normally only involves the fingers, toes, face, and distal extremities. Started early, treatments like phototherapy (light Use moisturizers on your skin to help lessen stiffness. Lokalizovaná kožní forma onemocnění se označuje jako morfea. The skin becomes thickened and hard ( sclerotic ). Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disorder involving many systems in the body. Nov 28, 2016 · Another symptom found in almost all people suffering from systemic sclerosis is heartburn. Some types of scleroderma affect only the skin, while others affect the whole body. There are two main types of scleroderma: localized scleroderma and systemic scleroderma. Sep 26, 2017 · INTRODUCTION. In time, the hardened skin may soften. It can be localized or systemic. According to Scleroderma and Raynaud’s UK, here are some of the commonly experienced skin conditions: Skin Tightening. Scleroderma, a rare connective tissue disorder with a complex unknown pathogenesis [1], that involves changes to the skin, and can also involve changes to the blood vessels and internal organs. Mar 1, 2021 · Skin induration initially affects the fingers (sclerodactyly) and extends proximally (see image below). People living with scleroderma face unique challenges while trying to keep up with their dental care and maintain their oral health. Systemic sclerosis has been subdivided into two main subtypes, according to Scleroderma means “hard skin. Scleroderma can affect young parents, children, grandparents, and teenagers. The key to feeling better is to tailor the scleroderma treatment to meet the specific needs, taking into account symptoms, type of scleroderma, age and overall To ease the discomfort of scleroderma: Get sufficient rest. Keep your skin, particularly your fingers and toes, covered and warm. They often appear as a single band in one body area and can be seen mixed with patches of morphea. It adds strength to organs and other parts of the body. In some people, it only affects the skin, but in others, scleroderma goes much deeper, harming your joints, blood vessels, internal organs and the Scleroderma is an autoimmune, rheumatic, and chronic disease that affects the body by hardening connective tissue. It’s also an autoimmune disease. It is a chronic condition in which the immune system mistakenly activates in a way that damages your own body. 82 Systemic sclerosis with myopathy. It has two main forms: Limited cutaneous scleroderma causes the skin to thicken. Oct 6, 2023 · Localized scleroderma usually affects only the skin and typically involves the hands, face, and scalp. Its progression is very slow, and it rarely, if ever, spreads throughout the body (becomes systemic) or causes serious complications. Enlarged red blood vessels seen at the skin on the hands, face and around the nail beds (telangiectasias). Perform gentle stretches to keep skin and joints flexible. 1 CR (E)ST syndrome. I didn't tell the doctors because they were already biopsying my arm. 2 Systemic sclerosis induced by drug and chemical. These patches become ivory coloured with violet borders, sweat very little and have sparse hair growth. Some people have both morphea and linear scleroderma. Dec 21, 2023 · Linear scleroderma: There may be bands or streaks of hardened skin on the limbs, and rarely the head and face. Scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, is an autoimmune condition that causes areas of skin to become thick and hard. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 410-955-5000 Maryland. Aug 17, 2017 · MORE: Eight scleroderma-related conditions you should look out for. LS is traditionally considered to be limited to skin, subcutaneous tissue, underlying bone, and, in craniofacial subtype, nervous system involvement [ 1 ]. CeraVe lotion has been a lifesaver, as it keeps the moisture locked in my skin all day and doesn’t leave behind a greasy film. As you begin to learn more about scleroderma, it is important to know that its symptoms and the severity of the disease vary greatly from person to person. Many parts of your body - from the nerves in your finger through your spinal cord and up to your brain – sense the feeling. Systemic scleroderma. Linear scleroderma tends to involve deeper layers of the Dec 24, 2019 · Scleroderma, also called systemic sclerosis, is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin and some internal organs of the body. Sometimes it forms a long crease on the head or neck, referred to as en coup de sabre because it resembles a saber or sword wound. Jul 21, 2021 · Linear scleroderma “en coup de sabre” and progressive facial hemiatrophy are considered to be two variants of localised scleroderma involving the frontoparietal face and skull. Maybe some gerds now and then, when I don't Nov 27, 2021 · People living with scleroderma face unique challenges while trying to maintain their oral health. The patches later become white in the middle with purple borders. Feb 8, 2023 · Systemic sclerosis (SS) is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to destroy healthy tissue and change the appearance and texture of your skin. Localised scleroderma – This condition is the mildest as it just affects the skin. My mouth was also tightening so that it was very hard to eat a hamburger or sandwich. Systemic sclerosis, on the other hand, can affect multiple organ systems and can be broken down into two subtypes: limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis Oct 24, 2016 · Mixed forms, such as localized scleroderma of the face with plaque/linear morphea at some other site, have been reported in the literature . It can be mild or severe. It can also affect an arm, leg, or trunk. Scleroderma is a progressive disorder characterized by thickening and tightening of the skin — especially on the arms, face and hands — which results in loss of flexibility. 8 Other forms of systemic sclerosis. Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder in which, for unknown reasons, the immune system stimulates cells to Jan 14, 2022 · Just weeks before he died, Saget spent a day with CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. The face may appear expressionless and there can be difficulty opening the mouth. Affected patients present with single or multiple inflammatory and sclerotic plaques, findings considered manifestations of active disease. This girl has a type of scleroderma called Parry-Romberg syndrome (PRS), which can cause loss of muscle, cartilage, and bone. It usually presents during childhood but may occur at any age. Morphea often improves by itself over time. Systémová sklerodermie navíc v různém rozsahu postihuje i Nov 27, 2021 · resulting from linear scleroderma that either was not treated or did not respond to treatment. Generalized morphea is more rare and serious, and involves the skin (dermis) but not the internal organs. Decreased hand function (skin tightens on the fingers and hands). Scleroderma is a disease of the body's connective tissue. Nov 27, 2021 · Scleroderma en coup de sabre Scleroderma en coup de sabre is a form of linear scleroderma in which the line of skin thickening occurs on the forehead or elsewhere on the face. The term 'scleroderma' covers various types of morphoea and systemic sclerosis . It results in potentially widespread fibrosis and vascular abnormalities, which can affect the skin, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, heart and kidneys. Linear scleroderma may improve after a few years, although it can affect the growth or movement of limbs. This type, also called systemic sclerosis, affects the skin and other parts of the body. Compression neuropathies, or those caused by direct pressure on a nerve, were reported Summary. Generalized Scleroderma Limited cutaneous scleroderma. The rationale is that an autoimmune process is causing the inflammation and the downstream result is tissue damage and fibrosis. If the diagnosis is scleroderma, treatment is most effective when started shortly after the disease has begun. Clean humidifiers often to stop bacteria from growing in the water. 81 Systemic sclerosis with lung involvement. This feeling travels along nerves up to your brain. Many people living with scleroderma have hand involvement, making it difficult to brush and floss. Localized scleroderma usually affects only the skin on the hands and face. Patches often appear on your chest, stomach, and back, but also can occur on your face, arms, and legs. Oct 19, 2011 · Morphea scleroderma happens when hard oval-shape patches form on the skin. Dental providers, who can treat complications from the thickening of tissues of the mouth and face. This can result in dry, cracked skin and the formation of small ulcers on the fingers or thumbs. It can affect your face, hands, arms, torso, legs, blood vessels, muscles, heart, digestive system, lungs, kidneys and other organs. As she presented with a mask-like face (Figure 1c) and a slightly shiny and tense appearance of the hands (Figure 1d), we referred her to a dermatologist for further evaluation. At that time, physical and occupational therapy can help you keep your ability to straighten and bend your joints and maintain your daily life. Localized scleroderma (also called morphea) -- Often affects only the skin on the chest, abdomen, or limb but not usually on the hands and face. Itchy skin is a common symptom that can be somewhat relieved by taking care of the skin. Yoga is a great option. 1st Thursday of each month at 7:30 pm. M34. Scleroderma affects many more women than men, and it’s typically found in people between the ages of 30 and 50. People with diffuse scleroderma are at greater risk for developing internal organ involvement early in the disease process. Morphea develops slowly, and rarely spreads in the body or causes serious problems such as internal organ damage. Become a Member You don't have to face scleroderma alone! Morphoea (American spelling, morphea) is characterised by an area of inflammation and fibrosis (thickening and hardening) of the skin due to increased collagen deposition. Aug 3, 2021 · Patients with peripheral nerve damage had a mean age of 48. It is more common in women. Skin tightening is due to the overproduction of collagen. It causes inflammation that leads to the hardening and tightening of the skin a Nov 20, 2021 · Plaque morphea is characterized by ivory-white oval lesions with a lilac peripheral ring and a smooth surface asymmetrically distributed on the trunk or, less commonly, on the extremities; the face and fingers are generally not involved. Experimenting with unscented lotions created Because scleroderma can affect many different organs and organ systems, you may have several different doctors providing your care, including: Cardiologists, who specialize in treating diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Learn about the types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, complications and treatment of SS. These plaques eventually become inactive, leaving permanent dermal or soft Jul 22, 2016 · Scleroderma is a disorder involving oral and facial tissues, with skin hardening, thin lips, deep wrinkles, xerostomia, tongue rigidity, and microstomia. This type of scleroderma is often mild and does not progress to involve other organs. But this disease can affect more than the skin. Linear scleroderma is histologically similar to morphea, though lesions consist not of isolated patches, but rather of bands that may extend through an entire limb, through part of the limb, or across the scalp and face, a finding termed a coup de sabre lesion. 83 Systemic sclerosis with polyneuropathy. Linear scleroderma en coup de sabre is the term generally applied when children have linear scleroderma on the head and/or face. Drink plenty of filtered water. Linear scleroderma is more common in children 10 and younger. A biopsy of the skin revealed hyperkeratosis in the epidermal layer and increased collagen fibres in the dermal layer (Figure 1e), consistent with scleroderma. Tri-State Chapter (Connecticut, Northern New Jersey, and New York) virtual. The exact cause of morphea is unknown. Within localized scleroderma, there are 2 forms: With 1 form, symptoms start with red patches of skin that thicken into hard, oval-shaped areas. This condition can This fact sheet offers suggestions to help cope with your new life with scleroderma. PRS is very rare. It is also known as localised scleroderma. It causes thickened skin, usually in larger areas and patches, including on your face and hands. 0 Progressive systemic sclerosis. This complex connective tissue disease is characterized by diverse clinical manifestations and multisystem involvement, with fibrosis of the skin and People living with scleroderma face unique challenges while trying to keep up with their dental care and maintain their oral health. These tight, thick bands can appear on the extremities, the back and front of the trunk, the buttocks or the face. Patches most commonly appear on the chest, stomach and back, but can also be present on the face, arms and legs. The two main types of scleroderma are: There are also different types of localised scleroderma and systemic sclerosis. org, for meeting details. However, when too much collagen is made, the skin becomes stiff and hard. Jul 13, 2022 · There are two types of localized scleroderma: Morphea: Reddish patches of skin that thicken into firm oval-shaped areas are distinctive features of the morphea type of localized scleroderma. Among them is collagen of the skin. The name scleroderma comes from two Greek words: “sclero” means hard Jan 27, 2012 · The term includes a variety of diseases, from localized scleroderma (LS) to systemic sclerosis. I started antibiotic therapy in June 2015. Gay Saget died from scleroderma understanding of scleroderma, we also strive to provide strategies for coping challenges scleroderma causes. It also causes problems with your May 2, 2016 · Red spots on your hands and face ; No one knows what causes scleroderma. Juvenile systemic sclerosis (JSSc) is a chronic multisystem connective tissue disorder characterized by hardening of the skin accompanied by abnormalities Young Adult Support Group Ages 18-30s. Your Modified Rodnan Skin Score is part of a more comprehensive scleroderma test called the Composite Response Index for Systemic Sclerosis (CRISS). This manifests as an overproduction of collagen, a protein that is a building block of connective tissues. Subtypes of morphoea vary according to the Dec 18, 2023 · A severe variation of linear scleroderma on the face is called en coup de sabre, translating to "the blow of the sword. M34 Systemic sclerosis [scleroderma] M34. Systemic scleroderma Gently clean affected skin. The word "scleroderma" means hard skin. May 2, 2024 · Today, the face of scleroderma includes people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition in which the body produces too much collagen. This affects the skin by causing it to be tight and shiny and can also affect internal organs, causing significant organ dysfunction. Herein they will briefly review the treatment options for both systemic sclerosis and Both Raynaud’s and digital ulcers occur in scleroderma because of narrowed blood vessels. Sep 29, 2023 · Systemic scleroderma can cause lots of symptoms. May 3, 2018 · Some individuals with scleroderma use raw coconut oil or shea butter to moisturize. Linear scleroderma can affect the bones and the muscles. Thick skin usually appears on your fingers or toes and then spreads toward the center of your body. All the individual scores are added up for your total score. (“Connective tissue” is widespread. Internal organs are spared. Systemic scleroderma can affect almost any organ in the body, and there is 1st: You sense a physical feeling in your finger. Dry skin is more easily injured. Scleroderma means 'hard skin'. Mar 13, 2023 · Linear scleroderma is thickened skin occurring in lines along the face, scalp, legs or arms. It is more common in women and most often develops around age 30 to 50. During this time my rash was spreading along my left leg. Scleroderma is the name for a range of conditions that affect your immune system (autoimmune conditions) and can cause hard, thickened areas of skin and sometimes problems with muscles, bones, internal organs and blood vessels. Other forms of scleroderma can also cause loss of tissue beneath the skin. The most common symptom is a thickening and hardening of the skin, particularly of the hands and face. This type presents with single or multiple patches on the skin. I was sent to a dermatologist and he did another biopsy and deeper. Scleroderma is a rheumatic disease, which means patients may have inflammation, pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, muscles and/or tissues. Recent studies, however, have described malaise, fatigue, arthralgia, and myalgia in morphea. Skin with scleroderma is dry and fragile. Patients can be more distressed by facial telangectasias and deformed hands than occult lung or heart dysfunction. Others have widespread patches on their body. Scleroderma is a rare and chronic condition that can affect many parts of your body including the skin, joints, blood vessels and internal organs. This form of systemic scleroderma is typically characterized by rapid development of skin thickening, beginning with the hands and face and extending to the arms and trunk. Most often, scleroderma is seen on the arms, legs, and face but can occur anywhere. ) Connective tissue is made of many kinds of proteins. This patient was diagnosed with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis based Jun 24, 2020 · Systemic scleroderma is a disease characterized by rapid growth of fibrous (connective) tissue that leads to scarring of skin and internal organs. Scleroderma is a chronic disease that can affect both the patient’s physical and mental health. Where you have the hardening and tightening varies with the type of scleroderma you have. Morphea: The first signs of morphea scleroderma are reddish patches of skin that thicken into firm, oval-shaped areas. Hence Mar 3, 2021 · Symptoms of scleroderma. Localized scleroderma is characterized by volume loss and skin fibrosis of a circumscribed area of the face or body. B. With dental conditions such as small mouth, dry mouth, jaw pain, gum disease and dietary issues, keeping up with dental care has never been more important for those living with scleroderma. Dec 18, 2023 · Other Symptoms. anyone in the U. There is no cure, but various treatments can control symptoms and complications. The body’s immune system damages normal, healthy tissues and replaces them with scar tissue, causing thickening and tightening of the skin. Rinse the cleanser away with warm water. This can present as chest pain, burning pain up your esophagus, nighttime cough, an acid taste in your mouth in the morning. Avoid hot baths and showers, as hot water dries the skin. Zsuzsanna McMahan discusses the signs and symptoms of Scleroderma. Morphea develops slowly. They are more likely to have dental conditions such as small mouth, dry mouth, jaw pain, gum disease, and dietary issues. S. 2nd: To feel pain you must notice the sensation – you must pay attention to it. Mar 5, 2024 · Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is an idiopathic inflammatory disorder that causes sclerotic changes in the skin. Localized types of scleroderma are those limited to the skin and related Sklerodermie (z řečtiny skleros = tvrdý a derma = kůže) je chronické fibrotizující onemocnění, charakterizované ukládáním nadměrného množství kolagenu do extracelulární matrix různých orgánů. Apr 19, 2022 · Some types of scleroderma affect only the skin, while others affect the whole body. Localized scleroderma is not a fatal disease, but quality of life is often adversely affected due to changes in skin appearance, joint contractures, and, rarely, serious deformities of the face and extremities [1,2]. The The most popular approach to controlling the inflammatory phase of scleroderma is the use of immunosuppressive therapy. They usually occur on the trunk but can also occur on the face arms legs and other parts of the body. Hardened or thickened skin that's lighter or darker than your usual skin tone Scleroderma typically appears as a hardening and tightening of the skin and the connective tissue underneath it. The thick, hard skin forms in a line or band on the arms, legs, or face. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Jan 8, 2020 · These spots generally appear on the trunk, face, and/or extremities. +1-410-502-7683 International. We didn't go deep enough for anything definitive. The prevalence of localised scleroderma ranges from 0·4 to 2·7 cases per 100 000 people and occurs 2–6 times more frequently in femals than in males. Morphea Scleroderma Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disorder, with a national annual incidence of 20 cases per million in the United States, and an estimated prevalence of 150–300 cases per million (1, 2). Research elucidating the mechanism of action of retinoic acid on collagen production in the skin and case series highlighting the success of retinoic acid on the skin manifestations of systemic sclerosis and on morphea demonstrate its promise as a treatment. In this model, the fibrosis is an “innocent bystander” that is driven by the cytokines Apr 7, 2017 · Diagnosed with diffuse scleroderma in 2015, I had tightening on my legs and feet, arms and hands, chest, neck and face. The skin lesions themselves typically soften and turn light brown over a period of years, as described for morphea. Johns Hopkins Rheumatologist Dr. With dental conditions such as small mouth, dry mouth, jaw pain, gum disease and dietary issues, keeping up with dental care has Maybe it's scleroderma. Localized scleroderma, also called morphea, often affects only the skin on the chest, abdomen, limbs, or scalp but not usually the hands and face. Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition that can lead to a tightening or hardening of the skin and, in some cases, internal organs. The patches are usually whitish with a purplish ring around them. Linear scleroderma is a form of localized scleroderma which frequently starts as a streak or line of hardened, waxy skin on an arm or leg or on the forehead. However, it is considered an autoimmune disease and is associated with various predisposing factors. Scleroderma is an uncommon condition. Scleroedema presents with symmetrical hardening and thickening of the skin. In growing children, both linear scleroderma and en coup de sabre can result in distortion of the growing limb or lack of symmetry of both sides of the face. Use a mild fragrance-free cleanser, applying it gently with your fingertips. There are two main types of scleroderma: 1. Oct 4, 2022 · Updated on October 4, 2022. The symptoms of scleroderma depend on the severity of the disease. Connective tissue holds together and supports our joints, muscles, internal organs and skin. Linear scleroderma appears as a band-like thickening of skin on the arms or legs. Scleroderma can be disfiguring and almost always affects the face and hands, two areas that are important cosmetically. 855-695-4872 Outside of Maryland. If you have morphea (more-fee-uh), the most common type of scleroderma, the patches may not feel too hard. The patches can occur on the chest, stomach, back, face, arms, and legs. Joints, muscles, and even internal organs like the kidneys and lungs can harden and tighten. Scleroderma: Sclerodactyly with digital ulceration, loss of skin creases, joint contractures, and sparse hair. 85 years from disease onset. Avoid harsh soaps, household cleaners, and caustic chemicals. Linear scleroderma usually occurs in children and teenagers. It is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disorder where inflammation and the overproduction of collagen accumulate in the body [2]. Localized scleroderma has been subdivided into plaque, generalized, linear, bullous and deep morphea. Click to enlarge. Limited cutaneous scleroderma tends to develop gradually and affects the skin only in certain areas: the fingers, hands, face, lower arms, and legs. Treatment works best when started early. That result was scleroderma. One of the most visible symptoms of the condition, also called systemic sclerosis, is hardening or thickening of the skin. " This condition can affect both the face and scalp. Email Amanda Lippincott, Alippincott@scleroderma. Approximately one in 10,000 individuals is affected. The affected areas are firm and woody plaques, sometimes slightly red or brown and often with a ‘peau d'orange’ (orange-skin) appearance. yw eu ey yk yr by ri kq jt am