Systemic sclerosis causes and best treatment methods

Have you ever noticed stiffness in your skin or extreme coldness in your fingers when exposed to chilly weather? While these symptoms might seem minor, they can sometimes be early warning signs of a rare autoimmune disease known as Systemic Sclerosis, also called Scleroderma.
This condition doesn’t just affect the skin — it can also involve major organs such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive system.In this article from Dalili Medical, we take you on a simplified medical journey to understand:

What is Systemic Sclerosis?
What causes it?
What are its symptoms?
How is it diagnosed and treated?

What is Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)?

Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is a rare autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy tissues. This leads to excessive production and buildup of collagen, causing the skin to become thick and tight. In more severe cases, it may also affect internal organs such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive system.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Systemic Sclerosis

Is scleroderma a serious disease?
Yes, it can be serious, especially if not diagnosed and treated early. Complications may involve the lungs, kidneys, or heart. However, regular medical follow-up can significantly reduce disease progression.

What is the difference between localized and systemic scleroderma?

Localized Scleroderma: Affects only the skin, without involving internal organs.
Systemic Sclerosis: Affects both the skin and internal organs, including blood vessels.

Can systemic sclerosis be cured?
There is currently no permanent cure. However, many patients live stable lives through:

Proper medication
Symptom management
Regular monitoring with specialists

What causes systemic sclerosis?
The exact cause is unknown. It's believed to be due to a combination of:

Genetic predisposition (e.g., HLA-B8 or HLA-DR5 genes)
Environmental triggers
This leads to immune system overactivation and excess collagen production.

Is systemic sclerosis hereditary?
Not directly. However, having a family history of autoimmune diseases may increase risk.

Can systemic sclerosis be treated with herbs?
Herbs are not a substitute for medical treatment but may help alleviate some symptoms when used as supportive therapy. Examples include:

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory
Ginger: Improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation
Fish oil (Omega-3): May help with joint stiffness
⚠️ Always consult your doctor before using any herbal remedy to avoid drug interactions.

Can scleroderma affect pregnancy?
Yes. Complications such as high blood pressure or kidney problems may worsen during pregnancy. Therefore, it’s important to:

Plan pregnancy in advance
Closely monitor with a rheumatologist and obstetrician
Track your health regularly

What is the best diet for someone with systemic sclerosis?

Eat antioxidant-rich foods (leafy greens, berries)
Increase fiber intake to support digestion
Limit salt, sugar, and processed fats
Stay well-hydrated
Avoid excessive caffeine and stomach-irritating foods

✅ Types of Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis is classified into different types based on skin involvement and the severity of internal organ damage:

1. Limited Systemic Sclerosis (CREST Syndrome)

This milder form progresses slowly and often affects the hands and face.
CREST stands for:

C: Calcinosis – calcium deposits under the skin
R: Raynaud’s phenomenon – color changes in fingers when exposed to cold
E: Esophageal dysmotility – swallowing or digestion issues
S: Sclerodactyly – tightening of the skin on the fingers
T: Telangiectasia – small visible blood vessels on the skin
???? Typically associated with less organ damage.

2. Diffuse Systemic Sclerosis

This more severe form develops rapidly and affects a larger area of the skin, such as the trunk and limbs. It often causes damage to vital organs like:

Heart
Lungs
Kidneys
Digestive tract
Requires intensive and continuous medical monitoring.

3. Sine Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis Without Skin Involvement)

A rare type that doesn’t involve skin changes but still affects internal organs.

4. Drug- or Toxin-Induced Scleroderma

Caused by exposure to certain chemicals such as:

Silica dust
Some chemotherapy drugs
Other occupational or environmental agents

✅ Causes of Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation, fibrosis, and excess collagen. While the exact cause remains unclear, potential contributing factors include:

Immune system dysfunction
Genetic predisposition
Environmental exposures (e.g., silica, solvents, infections)
Hormonal influences (more common in women)
Stress (may trigger or worsen symptoms)

Causes of Systemic Sclerosis

Immune System Dysfunction
The core issue in systemic sclerosis is an overactive immune response that leads to:

Chronic inflammation
Excessive collagen production
Skin thickening and fibrosis of vital organs such as the lungs and heart

Genetic Factors
A family history of autoimmune diseases, such as:

Lupus
Rheumatoid arthritis
...may increase the risk of developing systemic sclerosis.

Environmental Triggers
Exposure to certain chemicals or infections may trigger the disease, including:

Silica dust (found in mining and construction)
Organic solvents
Certain viral or bacterial infections

Gender and Hormones ♀️
Women are up to four times more likely to develop the disease than men, suggesting that female hormones like estrogen may play a role in triggering the immune response.
Stress and Physical Strain
While not a direct cause, emotional or physical stress can worsen symptoms or trigger disease onset in genetically predisposed individuals.

⚠️ Complications of Systemic Sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis can cause a wide range of complications affecting various organs:

● Limbs:

Poor blood flow to fingers and toes
Severe cases may lead to ulcers or even tissue death requiring amputation

● Lungs:

Pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of lung tissue)
Pulmonary hypertension, which may cause heart failure

● Kidneys:

Sudden rise in blood pressure
Rare but possible kidney failure in advanced cases

● Heart:

Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
Myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of heart tissue)
Right-sided heart failure due to lung pressure

● Digestive System:

Acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, bloating
Constipation or diarrhea due to slow bowel movement

● Oral Health:

Narrowed mouth opening (microstomia)
Dry mouth and increased risk of cavities due to low saliva production

● Sexual Function:

Men: Erectile dysfunction
Women: Vaginal dryness or narrowing, affecting intimacy

How is Systemic Sclerosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing systemic sclerosis can be challenging due to symptom overlap with other autoimmune or dermatological conditions. Diagnosis typically involves:

✅ 1. Medical History & Physical Examination:

Assessment of symptoms like skin stiffness, swallowing difficulty, or Raynaud’s phenomenon
Observing skin changes like thickening, swelling, or calcinosis

✅ 2. Blood Tests:

To identify autoantibodies commonly found in systemic sclerosis, such as:

Anti-centromere antibodies
Anti-Scl-70 (Topoisomerase I)

✅ 3. Imaging Studies:

X-rays or CT scans to evaluate lung and digestive system involvement

✅ 4. Organ Function Tests:

Pulmonary function tests for lung capacity
Echocardiogram and ECG to assess heart involvement
Esophageal manometry or endoscopy for GI function

✅ 5. Skin Biopsy:

A small sample of skin is taken and examined microscopically to detect collagen buildup and fibrosis.

Treatment Options for Systemic Sclerosis

There is no cure yet, but symptoms and complications can be managed through a personalized, multidisciplinary approach:

✅ 1. Medications:

Immunosuppressants:

Methotrexate, Cyclophosphamide
→ Suppress overactive immune responses

Corticosteroids:

Prednisone
→ Reduce inflammation (used cautiously, especially in kidney patients)

Vasodilators:

Nifedipine, Sildenafil
→ Improve blood flow and relieve Raynaud’s symptoms

Lung Protection Medications:

Bosentan, Mycophenolate Mofetil
→ Help reduce lung fibrosis

GI Medications:

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
→ Manage acid reflux and esophageal symptoms

✅ 2. Physical Therapy & Support:

Physical Therapy:

To maintain joint flexibility and reduce stiffness

Occupational Therapy:

To help patients adapt to daily activities and mobility changes

Psychological Support:

Relaxation techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reduce stress and improve life quality

Herbal Remedies for Scleroderma (Under Medical Supervision)

While herbs are not a cure, some may help ease symptoms when used as complementary therapy:

Herb	Potential Benefits
Turmeric	Powerful anti-inflammatory, supports immune regulation
Ginger	Improves circulation, reduces joint pain and stiffness
Chamomile	Natural calming agent, soothes skin irritation
Licorice Root	May boost immunity and reduce chronic inflammation
Lavender/Mint Oil	Used topically to relieve joint pain and skin discomfort

⚠️ Important Note: These remedies are not a substitute for medical treatment and may interact with prescribed drugs. Always consult your doctor before use.

❌ Is There a Cure for Scleroderma?

As of now, there is no definitive cure for systemic sclerosis. However, early detection and proper medical management can:

Slow the progression of the disease
Prevent serious complications
Significantly improve the patient’s quality of life

✅ Preventive Measures for Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)

Although systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease and cannot be completely prevented, certain lifestyle practices can help reduce symptoms and prevent health deterioration. Here are the most important prevention tips: