What is the difference between Lupus and Scleroderma?
lupus and scleroderma are in the same family of connective tissue diseases, but they are different disorders that differ in appearance, have different symptoms and have different treatment. Both conditions are autoimmune disorders that are the result of an excessive immune system that attacks the body's own tissues as foreign substances. While lupus is primarily an inflammatory disease, scleroderma is fibrous diseases affecting connective tissue.
The differences between lupus and scleroderma begin with a characteristic appearance of each conditions. Lupus is characterized by a distinctive "butterfly" rash on the face; This means a red rash that spreads over the faces and bridge of the nose. However, Scleroderma is defined by reinforced and hardened skin, usually on the fingers, but also on the hands, feet, forearm and face.
The exact causes of each conditions are not known, but there may be a genetic component. Scleroderma is the result of overproductionkolagen, connective tissue present throughout the body and part of the scar tissue. Lupus is inflammationA serious disease that affects the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs and blood cells.
as autoimmune disorders, lupus and scleroderma have similarities. Both disorders affect several organs, most often blood vessels and both occur more often in women than in men. Lupus and scleroderma are considered to be a "overlapping" disease because they are closely related and share symptoms such as exaggerated reaction to the cold. Diseases may occur together in the same person, even if it is not common. Approximately 4 percent of people with lupus also have sclerode.
lupus symptoms differ greatly from man to person and may depend on the severity of the state. In addition to butterfly rash there are other typical symptoms of fatigue, fever, weight change and pain or joint stiffness. They may also include hair loss, skin rashes that appear or worsen after exposure to the sun and ulcers in the mouth. People who have lupus can alsoFind out that their fingers or fingers on their feet dull and faded when it's cold.
The classic symptom of scleroderma is the fingers or fingers that are embodied or gray when exposed to the cold. Other symptoms include thickened spots of the skin on the fingers or hands and tight skin on the face or hands. A couple and gastroezyophageal reflux diseases are also common symptoms.
The diagnosis of lupus and scleroderma is difficult. Between these conditions and other autoimmune disorders such as sjogren and reumtoid arthritis syndrome, overlapping occurs, so the diagnostic process can be lengthy. The diagnosis is based on tests of rheumatologists and blood test results.
lupus and sclerodermia do not have a drug, but symptoms can be treated. Lupus is usually treated with non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophene and corticosteroids to control inflammation. Antimalarial drugs are also effective, although there is no known connection between lupus and malaria. Lupus usuallyIt cycles between the days of flares and the dormance.
Symptoms of scleroderma are treated with heartburn and reagent to suppress the immune system. Blood pressure medicines can also be used. These drugs will expand the blood vessels to improve circulation.