PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF SCLERODERMA

Predisposing factors:

Precipitating factors:

Environmental.
Genetic.
Gender.
Abnormal immune
activity.
Chronicity of
previous skin
infection.

Inappropriate skin
care management.
Frequent scratching
of the skin.

Serological tests:

Immune response

Signs and symptoms

(Skin):

Taut skin
Mask like face
Mouth becomes
rigid
Blackish
discoloration
Severe itchiness
Dryness
Tightening of
digits (fingers and
toes)
Hypopigmentation (whitish skin
appearance)

ANA (+)
ESR

Stimulates
production of
lymphokines

Activation of
procollagen

Formation of
insoluble collagen

Accumulates
excessively in
different tissues:
(Skin, Joints and
Blood vessels)

Signs and symptoms

(Joints):

Joint pain
Stiffening of
extremities and
loss of immobility