Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects various parts of the body, especially the skin and connective tissues. The diagnosis of scleroderma involves several tests and markers that help in identifying the disease and its severity.
Antinuclear Antibodies (ANAs) are the most common markers for scleroderma, found in over 95% of patients with the condition. ANAs are antibodies that attack the cell nuclei and are typically detected through a blood test. The presence of ANAs indicates an autoimmune response in the body, which is often found in scleroderma patients.
Scleroderma-specific antibodies (SSAs) and Scleroderma-associated antibodies (SAAs) are other markers used to diagnose scleroderma. These antibodies help identify which subtype of scleroderma is present as well as indicating certain complications or organ involvement in the disease.
Markers that indicate organ involvement in scleroderma include pulmonary function tests, echocardiograms, and skin biopsies. Patients with scleroderma may develop pulmonary hypertension or interstitial lung disease, which is characterized by abnormal lung function, shortness of breath, and a dry cough.
Echocardiograms can help detect any abnormalities in the heart’s function, such as right ventricular hypertrophy or pericardial effusion. Skin biopsies can show skin changes, such as fibrosis or collagen accumulation, which are indications of scleroderma.
Other symptoms that doctors may use to diagnose scleroderma include Raynaud’s Phenomenon, which is a condition characterized by cold fingers and toes due to spasms in blood vessels, and digital ulcers, small areas of tissue breakdown on the fingers or toes.
The diagnosis of scleroderma involves various markers, such as ANAs, SSAs, SAAs, and various diagnostic tests, which help identify the disease and its severity, as well as any complications or organ involvement. It is important for individuals who feel they may have scleroderma to seek a medical diagnosis for proper treatment and management of any potential complications.
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What labs are abnormal with scleroderma?
Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissue of the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. The abnormal production of collagen, a protein that gives structure to the body’s connective tissues, causes thickening and hardening of the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs.
The disease may also affect other organs, such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive system.
The diagnosis of scleroderma is based on a medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. There are no specific lab tests that can diagnose scleroderma, but some abnormal lab tests can suggest the presence of the disease.
The following are some of the abnormal labs that can be seen in scleroderma:
1. Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA): ANA is a type of antibody that attacks the body’s own tissues. ANA is present in almost all patients with scleroderma. However, ANA is not specific to scleroderma, and it can also be present in other autoimmune diseases.
2. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): ESR is a blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. Elevated ESR can indicate the presence of inflammation in the body, which is common in scleroderma.
3. Complete Blood Count (CBC): CBC is a blood test that measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. Abnormal CBC can indicate anemia, low white blood cell count, or low platelet count, which are all commonly seen in scleroderma.
4. Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product that is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. Elevated creatinine can indicate kidney damage, which is a common complication of scleroderma.
5. Rheumatoid Factor (RF): RF is a type of antibody that is present in many autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. RF can be present in some patients with scleroderma, but it is not specific to the disease.
6. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): PFTs are a series of tests that measure lung function. Abnormal PFTs can suggest the presence of lung damage, which is a common complication of scleroderma.
Scleroderma is a complex disease that affects multiple organ systems. While there is no specific lab test that can diagnose the disease, some abnormal lab tests can suggest the presence of scleroderma. ANA is present in almost all patients with scleroderma, but other lab tests, such as ESR, CBC, creatinine, RF, and PFTs, can also be abnormal in patients with scleroderma.
It is important to note that abnormal lab tests alone are not sufficient to diagnose the disease and must be interpreted in the context of a patient’s medical history and physical examination.
Does scleroderma show up in blood tests?
Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the skin and connective tissues of the body. The disease causes the hardening and thickening of the skin, which can lead to a range of complications, including joint pain, difficulty swallowing, and breathing problems.
While there is no cure for scleroderma, early detection and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent further damage to the body.
When it comes to diagnosing scleroderma, blood tests can be a useful tool. While there is no single blood test that can definitively diagnose the disease, several different tests can help identify markers that are commonly seen in people with scleroderma.
One of the most common blood tests used to diagnose scleroderma is the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test. ANA is a type of antibody that is found in the blood of people with scleroderma and other autoimmune diseases. While a positive ANA test can suggest that a person may have scleroderma, it is not definitive, as many people who do not have the disease can also test positive for ANA.
Other blood tests that may be used to help diagnose scleroderma include tests for specific antibodies that are commonly seen in people with the disease, such as anti-SCL70 and anti-centromere antibodies. These tests can help differentiate between different types of scleroderma and can also be used to monitor disease activity and response to treatment over time.
In addition to blood tests, other diagnostic tools may be used to confirm a diagnosis of scleroderma, including imaging tests like X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and biopsies of affected tissues.
While blood tests can be a useful tool in helping diagnose scleroderma, they are not definitive and must be considered alongside other diagnostic tools and medical history to accurately diagnose and treat the disease. Early detection and treatment of scleroderma can help manage symptoms and prevent further damage to the body, so it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms associated with the disease.
Is ESR elevated in scleroderma?
Yes, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) levels have been found to be elevated in individuals with scleroderma. Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissue of the body, resulting in changes in the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. The exact cause of this disease is still unknown, but it is thought to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
ESR is one of the tests used to monitor the disease activity and severity in scleroderma patients. It measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a test tube over a period of time, which is an indicator of inflammation in the body. When there is inflammation present in the body, the red blood cells clump together more quickly, causing the ESR levels to be elevated.
In scleroderma, ESR levels can be elevated due to the presence of inflammation in various body systems, including the lungs, joints, and digestive tract. In addition to ESR, other inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell count (WBC) may also be elevated in these individuals.
While an elevated ESR level does not provide a definitive diagnosis for scleroderma, it can be useful in monitoring disease activity and determining treatment strategies. Treatment for scleroderma often involves medications to suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, which can help to reduce inflammation and slow down the progression of the disease.
An elevated ESR level is frequently observed in individuals with scleroderma due to the presence of inflammation in the body. The test can be a useful tool for monitoring disease activity and guiding treatment decisions in these patients.
How do you rule out systemic sclerosis?
Systemic sclerosis, also called scleroderma, is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the connective tissues of the body. It is characterized by the hardening and thickening of the skin, as well as damage to internal organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and digestive system. As there is no known cure for this condition, early detection is key to managing symptoms and preserving quality of life.
There is no single test that can confirm or rule out systemic sclerosis. Instead, diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsy results. One of the earliest signs of systemic sclerosis is Raynaud’s phenomenon, which is characterized by the narrowing of blood vessels in the fingers and toes, leading to color changes, numbness, and pain.
To rule out systemic sclerosis, a healthcare professional will take a detailed medical history, assess the patient’s symptoms, and perform a thorough physical examination. Blood tests may be used to detect antibodies that are associated with systemic sclerosis, such as anti-nuclear antibodies (ANAs), anti-centromere antibodies (ACAs), and anti-topoisomerase antibodies (ATA).
Imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI may also be performed to evaluate the extent of organ involvement.
In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of scleroderma-related changes in the skin. This involves taking a small tissue sample for analysis under a microscope. Additional testing, such as pulmonary function tests, echocardiogram, or endoscopy, may be recommended to evaluate the extent of organ involvement.
While there is no cure for systemic sclerosis, there are a variety of treatments that can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These may include medications to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, or suppress the immune system, as well as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
Ruling out systemic sclerosis requires a combination of diagnostic tests, including a thorough physical exam, blood tests, imaging studies, and biopsy results. Early detection can lead to earlier intervention and better management of symptoms, which can improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.
What is the hallmark of systemic sclerosis?
Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissues of the body. The hallmark of systemic sclerosis is the thickening and hardening of the skin, which is caused by the excessive production and accumulation of collagen in the tissues. This can result in the skin becoming stiff, tight and shiny, and can lead to joint pain, muscle weakness, and difficulty in movement.
In addition to skin changes, systemic sclerosis can also affect internal organs such as the lungs, heart, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. The severity of these organ complications can vary from mild to life-threatening, with lung disease being the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic sclerosis.
Other symptoms of systemic sclerosis may include Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition where the fingers and toes turn white or blue in response to cold or stress, and may become painful or numb. Patients may also experience fatigue, weight loss, and a loss of appetite.
The diagnosis of systemic sclerosis is based on a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and diagnostic imaging. Early detection and prompt treatment are important in preventing disease progression, as there is currently no cure for systemic sclerosis.
Treatment for systemic sclerosis may include medications to manage symptoms, such as pain, skin changes, and organ involvement. Medications may also be used to suppress the immune system and prevent further damage to the tissues of the body. Rehabilitation and physical therapy may also be recommended to improve mobility and maintain range of motion.
The hallmark of systemic sclerosis is the thickening and hardening of the skin, which can lead to other organ involvement and complications. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are important in the management of this rare autoimmune disease.
What immunological indicator is most typical for systemic scleroderma?
Systemic scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissues in the body. The disease is characterized by the production of excessive collagen, which can cause the hardening and thickening of the skin and internal organs. Systemic scleroderma affects multiple systems of the body, and its presentation can be variable among patients.
Consequently, it is essential to diagnose the disease early on for effective treatment and management.
When it comes to diagnosing systemic scleroderma, various immunological markers and clinical symptoms are used to differentiate it from other autoimmune diseases. The most typical immunological indicator of systemic scleroderma is the presence of specific autoantibodies in the blood. Autoantibodies are proteins produced by the immune system that mistakenly attack healthy tissues in the body.
In systemic scleroderma, patients produce antibodies against certain proteins such as centromere, topoisomerase, RNA polymerase III, and U3 RNP. The presence of these autoantibodies is indicative of the development of systemic scleroderma, and their identification is part of the routine laboratory tests when evaluating a patient for this disease.
One of the most common autoantibodies found in systemic scleroderma is anti-centromere antibodies (ACA). ACA are directed against centromere proteins that are responsible for the proper orientation of chromosomes during cell division. Studies have shown that ACA are found in up to 30% of patients with systemic scleroderma and are associated with limited cutaneous scleroderma, a subtype of the disease that primarily affects the skin of the hands, face, and feet.
Another autoantibody that is commonly found in systemic scleroderma patients is anti-topoisomerase I antibody (ATA). ATA are directed against the topoisomerase I enzyme that is responsible for unwinding DNA strands during transcription. ATA are found in around 20% of systemic scleroderma patients and are associated with diffuse cutaneous scleroderma, a subtype of the disease that affects the skin and internal organs.
In addition to ACA and ATA, other autoantibodies are also associated with systemic scleroderma. These include anti-RNA polymerase III antibody (ARA), anti-U3 RNP antibody, and anti-Th/To antibody. The presence of these autoantibodies is useful in diagnosing systemic scleroderma, monitoring disease activity, and predicting complications such as pulmonary arterial hypertension and interstitial lung disease.
The most typical immunological indicator of systemic scleroderma is the presence of specific autoantibodies in the blood. These autoantibodies, including ACA, ATA, ARA, anti-U3 RNP antibody, and anti-Th/To antibody, can help with the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of patients with this rare autoimmune disease.
However, it is worth noting that a diagnosis of systemic scleroderma is not based solely on the presence of autoantibodies and requires a comprehensive evaluation of clinical symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
How does a rheumatologist diagnose scleroderma?
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects connective tissue and can cause thickening and hardening of the skin, as well as damage to internal organs. As such, diagnosing scleroderma can be a complex process that involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and specialized testing.
Firstly, a rheumatologist will start by reviewing the patient’s medical history and symptoms. Some common symptoms of scleroderma include skin thickening, Raynaud’s phenomenon, tight or swollen fingers, joint pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty swallowing.
After obtaining a thorough medical history, a rheumatologist will perform a thorough physical exam to assess for skin changes, joint involvement, and any organ damage that may be present. They may also perform additional tests to confirm a diagnosis of scleroderma, such as blood tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays or CT scans), or specialized testing to evaluate organ function.
Blood tests may include a complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), antinuclear antibody (ANA) levels, and specific autoantibody tests such as anti-topoisomerase I (Scl-70), anticentromere antibody (ACA), and anti-RNA polymerase III (RNA pol III). These tests can help to confirm the presence of an autoimmune disorder and identify specific antibodies associated with scleroderma.
Imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be used to assess any damage to internal organs such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, or gastrointestinal tract. These tests can help identify any visible signs of organ damage or inflammation.
Finally, specialized testing may be performed to evaluate specific organ function. For example, pulmonary function tests may be used to assess lung function, echocardiography or other imaging tests may be performed to assess heart function, or endoscopy may be used to evaluate for esophageal or gastrointestinal involvement.
The process of diagnosing scleroderma is complex and may involve a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and specialized testing. A rheumatologist will use these tools to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of organ involvement in order to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Is rheumatoid factor positive in scleroderma?
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease that causes hardening and thickening of the skin and connective tissues. This condition affects various parts of the body, including the skin, muscles, blood vessels, and internal organs like the lungs, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. Scleroderma is a complex condition with several different subtypes, and its diagnosis can be complicated because symptoms may be similar to other autoimmune diseases.
One of the tests that may be used to help diagnose scleroderma is the rheumatoid factor (RF) test. The RF test is a blood test that detects the presence of antibodies that target a protein commonly found in the joints and connective tissues. This protein is called the rheumatoid factor, hence the name of the test.
Although scleroderma is an autoimmune condition, the presence of RF is generally not considered a hallmark of the disease. RF is most commonly associated with rheumatoid arthritis, which is a different autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
That being said, there have been some reports of patients with scleroderma having a positive RF test result, but this is not common.
According to current medical literature, only a small percentage of patients with scleroderma will test positive for RF. This suggests that RF is not a reliable marker for diagnosing or monitoring the progression of scleroderma. Instead, doctors typically rely on a combination of clinical signs and symptoms, physical exams, and other laboratory tests to make a diagnosis.
The diagnosis of scleroderma requires a thorough evaluation by a knowledgeable healthcare provider who specializes in autoimmune diseases. If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to scleroderma or another autoimmune condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional as soon as possible to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
How do you confirm scleroderma?
Scleroderma is a type of autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissues of the body. The process of confirming scleroderma involves a combination of medical history examination and diagnostic tests.
The first step in confirming scleroderma is to gather the patient’s medical history. This involves discussing the signs and symptoms of the disease with the patient, which may include skin changes, joint pain, difficulty swallowing, and breathing problems. The doctor may also ask about any family history of autoimmune diseases, as well as any previous medical treatments or surgeries that the patient has had.
Once the medical history has been obtained, the doctor will perform a physical exam to look for characteristic symptoms of scleroderma. These may include hardening or thickening of the skin on the hands and face, Raynaud’s phenomenon (where the fingers and toes turn white or blue in response to cold temperature or stress), and limited mobility of the fingers and hands.
To confirm the diagnosis of scleroderma, a variety of diagnostic tests may be performed. These may include blood tests to look for specific antibodies or markers of the disease, as well as imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound or CT scan to evaluate internal organs, tissues and muscles. Skin biopsy is another diagnostic tool, where a small sample of skin is taken and examined under the microscope to look for characteristic changes seen in scleroderma.
In addition, other diagnostic tests may be done to rule out other autoimmune diseases or disorders that can have similar symptoms as scleroderma. These could involve tests for lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, polymyositis or dermatomyositis.
Confirming scleroderma is a complex process that involves a combination of medical history, physical examination and diagnostic tests to detect the characteristic symptoms and help distinguish it from other similar conditions. It is important to seek medical attention and prompt diagnosis to help improve the chances of successful treatment and management of the disease.
What can mimic systemic scleroderma?
Systemic scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a connective tissue disorder that is characterized by thickening and hardening of the skin and internal organs due to the overproduction and accumulation of collagen. This condition can mimic other disorders that cause similar symptoms, making it challenging for physicians to make an accurate diagnosis.
There are several conditions that can mimic systemic scleroderma, including other autoimmune diseases, certain medications, and environmental factors. For instance, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and mixed connective tissue disease share many of the same symptoms as scleroderma, such as joint pain, skin changes, and fatigue.
These conditions also involve the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.
Certain medications can also cause symptoms that mimic systemic scleroderma. These include drugs used to treat migraines, bacterial infections, and hypertension. Environmental factors, such as exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation, can also lead to the development of symptoms that resemble those of scleroderma.
Other conditions that can mimic scleroderma include idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which causes scarring of the lungs and breathing difficulties, and Raynaud’s syndrome, which is characterized by episodes of numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes in response to cold temperatures or emotional stress.
It is essential for physicians to conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, perform a physical exam, and order appropriate diagnostic tests to determine whether the patient has systemic scleroderma or another condition that mimics it. These tests may include blood tests to check for autoantibodies, imaging tests to assess the extent of skin and organ involvement, and pulmonary function tests to evaluate lung function.
Systemic scleroderma is a complex autoimmune disease that can mimic other conditions. Accurate diagnosis is critical to providing appropriate treatment and preventing further damage to the skin, organs, and other vital structures. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms associated with the disease.
Does scleroderma cause a high CRP?
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and internal organs. It is characterized by the overproduction of collagen, which causes the skin to become thick and hard. The exact causes of scleroderma are not known, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation in the body. In healthy individuals, CRP levels are very low. However, in individuals with inflammatory conditions like scleroderma, CRP levels can be elevated.
In scleroderma, inflammation can occur in the skin, muscles, and internal organs. This can lead to an elevation in CRP levels. However, not all individuals with scleroderma will have elevated CRP levels. Some individuals may have normal CRP levels despite having active disease, while others may have high CRP levels even if their scleroderma is not active.
Furthermore, CRP levels can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the stage of the disease. In general, individuals with more advanced and severe scleroderma are more likely to have high CRP levels.
In addition to scleroderma, there are many other conditions that can cause an elevation in CRP levels. These include infections, autoimmune disorders, cancer, and certain medications. Therefore, a high CRP level alone is not enough to diagnose scleroderma. A proper diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s symptoms, clinical features, and laboratory results.
Scleroderma can cause a high CRP level, but not all individuals with scleroderma will have elevated levels. CRP levels can vary depending on the severity and stage of the disease, and an elevated CRP level alone is not enough to diagnose scleroderma. A proper diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.
What were your first symptoms of scleroderma?
The symptoms of scleroderma can vary depending on the subtype of the disease and the organs involved.
Early symptoms of scleroderma may include skin changes, such as thickening and hardening of the skin, especially on the fingers and hands. The affected skin can also become discolored, shiny, or develop tiny blood vessels visible under the skin. Patients may also experience joint pain, stiffness, and weakness, as well as muscle pain and fatigue.
Other symptoms of scleroderma may include digestive problems, such as difficulty swallowing, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. The disease can also affect the lungs, causing shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. In severe cases, scleroderma can damage the heart, kidneys, and other organs, leading to life-threatening complications.
It is important to note that scleroderma symptoms can be gradual and may initially be mistaken for other conditions. Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they last longer than a few weeks or interfere with daily activities. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent further damage.
When is scleroderma usually diagnosed?
Scleroderma is usually diagnosed in adults between the ages of 30 and 50 years old. However, it can occur in children and older adults as well. The symptoms of scleroderma can vary greatly, and it can take several years for a proper diagnosis to be made.
Some of the early symptoms of scleroderma include thickening and hardening of the skin, especially on the fingers, hands, and face. This can cause difficulty with movement and can affect fine motor skills. Other early symptoms may include joint pain, muscle weakness, and digestive problems such as heartburn and difficulty swallowing.
As scleroderma progresses, additional symptoms may develop, including changes in skin color and texture, hair loss, and the formation of ulcers on the skin. The disease can also lead to damage in the internal organs such as the lungs, heart, and digestive tract. This can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty digesting food, among other symptoms.
Due to the varied and progressive nature of the disease, early diagnosis and treatment is crucial. A primary care physician or a specialist such as a rheumatologist or dermatologist may diagnose scleroderma through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies. Treatment may involve medication to manage symptoms, physical therapy to improve mobility, and lifestyle changes to promote overall health and well-being.
Scleroderma can be a challenging disease to diagnose and manage, and a team approach involving multiple healthcare providers may be necessary to provide comprehensive and effective care.
Is scleroderma often misdiagnosed?
Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissues of the body. It often manifests as hardening and thickening of the skin, but can also affect internal organs and blood vessels. Due to its rarity and the variability of symptoms, scleroderma is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late in the progression of the disease.
One of the factors that contribute to misdiagnosis of scleroderma is its similarity to other systemic autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and dermatomyositis. Scleroderma often mimics symptoms of other disorders and can be easily missed or diagnosed as something else. This can be especially true for patients who present with localized scleroderma, which affects only the skin, and might be missed as a cosmetic issue rather than a systemic condition.
Moreover, patients with scleroderma often experience symptoms that are not typically associated with the disease. These could vary from gastrointestinal complications, to interstitial lung disease, to pulmonary arterial hypertension leading medical professionals to diagnose the symptoms as separate diseases rather than scleroderma.
In addition, scleroderma is a rare disease, with an estimated prevalence rate of 10-500 cases per million people worldwide. This low prevalence makes it difficult for primary care providers to recognize the disease.
Furthermore, the diagnosis of scleroderma requires a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and blood tests, as well as imaging and other diagnostic procedures, which are not always performed early on in the disease process. Often, it takes years to receive a diagnosis of scleroderma or any other rheumatologic diseases, especially for early-onset of symptoms or if it is a mild variant of scleroderma and the clinicians are unaware of the variations in presentation of the disease.
Due to the rarity, vague, and overlapping symptoms of scleroderma, it is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late in the course of the disease, which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Nevertheless, with newer clinical understanding and more comprehensive diagnostics, medical professionals have improved the diagnosis and outcomes of scleroderma over the years.
