Localized scleroderma is a chronic disease characterized by lesions of the connective tissue with the appearance of foci of sclerosis against the background of inflammatory changes in the skin.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the incidence of scleroderma, which is associated with changes in the immunoreactivity of the human body, which occur as a result of constant contact with various allergens and the irrational use of medications.
On estet-portal.com read about the main symptoms of this disease, pathogenetic mechanisms of scleroderma development, and modern approaches to its treatment.
Features of the clinical picture of focal scleroderma
Scleroderma patches can vary in symptoms depending on the type and stage of the disease. They include the appearance of lilac plaques with well-defined margins, prone to peripheral growth.
Over time, the focus becomes more dense and brightens, acquiring a characteristic "ivory" color, only a purple rim remains along its periphery. The shape of the plaques can be rounded oval and linear. Most often, the elements are located on the abdomen, chest, back or limbs.
Scleroderma nigricans is three to four times more common in women than in men.
In linear and deep focal scleroderma, articular contractures, subcutaneous atrophy can occur, resulting in limb deformity and disability.
Features of the course of the main forms of scleroderma
Local scleroderma: pathogenesis of the disease
Pathophysiological changes in scleroderma are characterized by hyperproduction of type 1 and 3 collagen. However, what exactly causes the activation of fibroblasts in this pathology is unknown.
There is an opinion that the cause of focal scleroderma is immunological damage to endothelial cells.
Confirmation of the autoimmune theory of the occurrence of this disease is the presence of autoantibodies in patients, as well as the frequent association of scleroderma with other autoimmune diseases, such as vitiligo, autoimmune thyroiditis, etc.
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Basic approaches to the treatment of focal scleroderma
The sooner scleroderma therapy is started, the less will be the focus of skin atrophy in the future. Systemic therapy includes the administration of corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to reduce the activity of the inflammatory process and suppress collagen synthesis.
For the treatment of scleroderma in the stage of sclerosis and induration, hyaluronidase preparations are used, as well as high doses of penicillins.
For scleroderma nigricans, vitamin D creams are applied to the lesions to inhibit fibroblast activity, reduce inflammation, and help soften the skin.
Scleroderma is almost always accompanied by dry skin, so it is very important to keep it moisturized. Also, patients are not advised to take a hot bath, as this also leads to dehydration of the skin.
You may also be interested in: Causes and clinical manifestations of focal scleroderma
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