What is progressive systemic sclerosis?
Progressive systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that causes problems with skin, joints and internal organs. Defining the characteristics of the disease is overproduction of collagen, type of connective tissue, in the body. When there are too many collagen, densification and harvesting areas, the joints become less mobile and are damaged by vital blood vessels. People who have progressive systemic sclerosis can experience a number of symptoms that are gradually deteriorating over time, which may lead to permanent disability or life -threatening hearts and pulmonary conditions. Medicines and physical therapies help many patients find some relief from their symptoms, but there is currently no known cure for disorder.
The causes of progressive systemic sclerosis are not fully understood. It is believed that genetic factors play a role, but no clear genetic connection has been discovered. Long -term exposure to environmental toxins such as silica dust, pesticide and epoxy adhesiveand, it is to ensure mmon in patients. The disease is most common in adult women aged 40 years.
In many cases, skin changes are the first noticeable symptoms of progressive systemic sclerosis. The marking of the blood vessels in the fingers and legs can cause them to be difficult and lose feeling when they are exposed to a slight cold, a state called Raynaud phenomenon. The skin on the fingers and fingers can also be very strong and the nails can be fragile and break away. Excess calcium and collagen in the joints of the finger could cause the digit to be bent embarrassed and also lose dexterity. In common are itchy spots of the skin and ulcers on the feet.
This disease can also cause pain and stiffness in the main joints such as knees, elbows and hips. The digestive problems are common, such as heartburn, frequent nausea and vomiting. If the blood vessels in the lungs are damaged and scarred, it may have a human bay with breathing and developsvery high blood pressure. Heart failure is also possible if the disease causes inflammation and tissue of the tissue around the organ.
A team of doctors, including dermatologists and internists, usually participates in the diagnosis of progressive systemic sclerosis. Physical tests that reveal the main changes in the skin generally provide the first track that the disorder exists. X -rays and other diagnostic imaging scanning are useful in detecting the presence of excess collagen and measurement of the extent of damage to blood vessels and internal organs. Blood samples are also tested to confirm the presence of abnormal antibodies and other characteristic symptoms of sclerosis.
treatment of progressive systemic sclerosis is highly individualized and aimed at improving specific symptoms of each patient. Skin problems are usually treated with local corticosteroids and humidifiers. Patients with Raynaud's phenomenon may have to avoid dare outside the drazazvonete very hot or cold originASI to avoid complications. Oral steroids are often administered for joint problems and stabilizers of blood pressure, heartburn drugs and bronchodilators can help with other symptoms. Regular exercise or controlled physical therapy is important to remain mobile and independent at the later stages of the disease.