Scleroderma is considered a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the connective tissue in the body. Estimates indicate that it affects between 300,000 to 500,000 people in the United States. The average prevalence of scleroderma in the United States is 8.
4 per 100,000 people. Around 80-90 percent of people with the disorder are diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 50. In addition, more than 75 percent of cases are women. Though the exact cause of scleroderma is unknown, it has been linked to certain environmental factors and genetic components.
While the condition is quite rare, there is an increased prevalence of scleroderma among certain ethnic backgrounds, such as African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans. Symptoms of scleroderma can vary greatly from person to person, but often include thickened skin, Raynaud’s phenomenon, organ damage, and joint pain.
Due to the rarity and complexity of scleroderma, it is often difficult to diagnose and treat. This is why early diagnosis and proper management are so important in treating the condition. With diligent monitoring, treatment and lifestyle modifications, scleroderma can be managed and individuals can go on to live comfortable, productive lives.
Is scleroderma considered a rare disease?
Yes, scleroderma is considered a rare disease. According to the National Institute of Health, scleroderma is a rare autoimmune rheumatic disease that affects both connective tissues and blood vessels.
It is estimated that scleroderma affects over 500,000 individuals in the United States, which is fewer than 200,000 individuals per state. Furthermore, scleroderma is estimated to affect between 1 in 5,000 and 1 in 10,000 of the population worldwide.
While there is no known cause of the disease, it is thought to be an autoimmune process and linked to genetics. Treatment for scleroderma also depends on the person, but typically includes medications, physical therapy, surgery, home remedies, and lifestyle changes.
How rare is systemic sclerosis?
Systemic sclerosis is a rare condition that affects an estimated 30,000 to 90,000 individuals in the United States and about a million people worldwide. It can occur at any age, but it is most commonly seen in women aged 35 to 55 years.
Systemic sclerosis is more prevalent among African Americans than in any other racial or ethnic group, though it affects all racial and ethnic groups. It is estimated that 10 to 20 new cases of systemic sclerosis are reported each year in the United States, with approximately one in 5,000-7,500 individuals affected.
Systemic sclerosis is much more common in certain parts of the world, including the Middle East, Japan, and South America. The cause of systemic sclerosis remains unclear, and effective treatments are not yet available.
What is the root cause of scleroderma?
The exact root cause of scleroderma is unknown. However, theories suggest that it may be the result of a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. For instance, genetics are thought to play a role in the development of scleroderma as 5-10% of people with the condition have a relative with the same diagnosis.
Additionally, environmental factors such as being exposed to certain toxins, medications, sun, and chemicals have been linked to the onset of scleroderma. Finally, those with autoimmune disorders may be at an increased risk of developing scleroderma due to abnormal production of proteins that can cause an abnormal inflammatory response and abnormal collagen synthesis.
Thus, while the exact root cause remains unknown, it is likely that it is the result of a combination of different factors.
Who typically gets scleroderma?
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder which affects the skin and connective tissues. It can affect people of any age, race or gender, but it is more common in women aged 30-50. There appears to be a higher risk among individuals of African and Asian heritage.
People with a family history of scleroderma are at an increased risk as well.
It is unknown what triggers scleroderma, but there may be certain environmental factors that increase a person’s risk, such as certain toxins and chemicals, infection, hormones or stress.
How quickly does scleroderma progress?
The rate of progression of scleroderma varies greatly among individuals. There are two forms of the condition: localized (affecting only the skin) and systemic (which impacts larger areas of the body beyond the skin).
Localized scleroderma is rarely life-threatening and tends to progress very slowly. Systemic sclerosis, on the other hand, is rarely curable, and the rate of progression is harder to predict. It can affect the internal organs and sometimes cause serious complications, depending on which organs are affected.
While every case of systemic scleroderma is unique, the condition typically progresses over the course of several years, although some individuals may experience rapid or slower-than-average rates of progression.
Ultimately, scleroderma can be a very serious condition, and those affected should seek frequent medical attention to assess disease progression and the need for additional treatments.
What chemicals can trigger scleroderma?
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder in which the body produces too much collagen. This can lead to a hardening of the skin tissue and organs. There are multiple triggers that can cause scleroderma to develop, though the exact cause of the disorder is still unknown.
One potential trigger that has been identified is exposure to certain industrial chemicals. Specific chemicals which may be linked to the development of scleroderma include silica, asbestos,vinyl chloride, epoxy resins, chrome, and trichloroethylene.
Beyond industrial chemicals, certain medications have been linked to the development of scleroderma as well. These include chemotherapy drugs, some heart and diabetes drugs, and anti-malarial drugs.
Finally, laboratory studies have suggested that viruses, as well as fragments of viral RNA, could also be a potential trigger for scleroderma. In particular, the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been studied as a potential factor in triggering the disorder.
Overall, while the exact triggers of scleroderma are unknown, there are several environmental chemicals, medications, and even viruses which have been identified as potential triggers of the disorder.
What foods should be avoided with scleroderma?
Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition that leads to the hardening and thickening of the skin. Eating a healthy and balanced diet is incredibly important for those with scleroderma. Knowing which foods should be avoided is also key to helping maintain healthy skin and overall well-being.
Some of the foods that should be avoided by those with scleroderma include processed foods, fried foods, high-sugar foods and drinks, caffeine, foods high in sodium or transfat, and foods that are acidic or spicy.
Processed foods can be high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and preservatives, all of which can exacerbate inflammation in people with scleroderma. Meanwhile, acidic or spicy foods can cause irritation and redness of the skin and worsen symptoms of scleroderma.
Additionally, fried foods, high-sugar foods and drinks, caffeine, and foods high in sodium or transfat should also be avoided as they can all have a negative impact on overall health. It is best to focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods such as a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins when following a diet for scleroderma.
Eating a diet full of nutrient-dense foods can help reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and improve overall quality of life.
Can you get rid of scleroderma?
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for scleroderma. However, treatments are available which can help manage the symptoms, slow the progression and improve quality of life. Treatment would depend on the type and severity of scleroderma and the organs involved.
Treatments range from medications and dietary changes to physical therapy and lifestyle changes, to radiation and surgery. A doctor or specialist can provide advice on the best course of treatment for each individual and how to manage the disease.
It is important to note that ongoing monitoring and support are essential for managing scleroderma in the long-term.
Where does scleroderma usually start?
Scleroderma usually begins with a thickening, hardening and/or tightening of the skin, typically on the hands and face. This is known as the localized form of scleroderma. Other areas of the body may be affected later, including the arms, chest, back, abdomen and legs.
In some cases, scleroderma can spread to the internal organs. This is called the systemic form of scleroderma. This can affect the heart, lungs, kidneys, and gastrointestinal system. Scleroderma can also lead to changes in the blood vessels and joints.
It is not usually known exactly what triggers the onset of scleroderma, but environmental and genetic factors may play a role.
Does scleroderma come on suddenly?
No, scleroderma does not come on suddenly. Generally, it develops gradually over weeks to months. Early signs may include sensitive skin that appears thinner, harder, or shinier than usual, along with fatigue, joint pain, and stiffness, or a tingling sensation in the fingers and toes.
Depending on the type of scleroderma, signs can vary and worsen over time. Therefore, it is important to discuss any symptoms with your doctor as soon as possible to determine an accurate diagnosis.
How many people get scleroderma per year?
Approximately 300,000 people in the United States and 4-800,000 people globally are affected by scleroderma. According to the Scleroderma Foundation, an estimated 25,000-50,000 individuals are newly diagnosed with scleroderma each year in the United States, while the global incidence rate is estimated to be 2-3 cases per 100,000 population, with wide regional variance.
The incidence of scleroderma is slightly higher in women than men, with a ratio of 3:2. While the cause of scleroderma is not known, it is believed to have an autoimmune component. The most commonly affected age group is between 30 and 50, but the disease can affect children, adolescents, and individuals over the age of 60.
Where is scleroderma most commonly found?
Scleroderma is most commonly found in adults, but it can affect people of any age. It is most commonly seen in women between the ages of 30 and 50, but it is also seen in children and older adults. The disease is more common in people of European descent, but it can occur in anyone.
The most common regions for scleroderma are North America, Europe, Australia, and Japan. In the United States, scleroderma is most common in the Appalachian region, the southeastern states, and the Midwest.
It is also more common in African Americans and Native Americans than in white Americans. People living at high altitudes have increased risk of scleroderma compared to those living in low altitudes.
Which organ is more involved in scleroderma?
Scleroderma is a connective tissue disorder that affects many organs of the body, including the skin, lungs, kidneys, heart, and esophagus. However, one organ that is particularly involved in scleroderma is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
The GI tract is comprised of organs that are responsible for the digestion, absorption and processing of food, as well as controlling vital bodily functions such as the secretion of hormones, enzymes and other metabolites.
In scleroderma, these organs become scarred, thickened, and inflamed, known as sclerodactyly. This can lead to a range of symptoms, such as abdominal pain and passing hard, dry stools. Other GI symptoms in scleroderma include difficulty swallowing, poor absorption of nutrients, and acid reflux.
Furthermore, the small intestine is often affected and can lead to malabsorption, due to the scarring of the gut which affects motility and the secretions from the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, the GI tract is one of the more prominently involved organs in scleroderma, and it is important for individuals with this condition to manage the condition in order to reduce the risk of further complications.