Question 1

which layer of skin does scleroderma affect?

Accepted Answer

Dermis: In scleroderma, as the dermis layer thickens (the layer right over the fat layer under your skin), the very top layer, the epidermis, begins to thin. This causes a dry thin top layer and a hard tight bottom layer.

Question 2

need to clarify so scleroderma can affect bladder only without any organ or skin involvement?

Accepted Answer

It can't: If there is only bladder involvement, there has to be another cause other than scleroderma.

Question 3

what is "skin thickening" or "hardening" in scleroderma?

Accepted Answer

Fibrosis: Reactice process where fibroblasts produce new collagen and make skin harder and less supple. There is no good treatment for softening skin of s leroderma. Strong topical steroid creams may offer mild improvement.

Question 4

just because i have some calcium deposits on the skin, it doesn't necessarily mean i have scleroderma...or does it? they're not clusters.

Accepted Answer

It does not: You are right. There is a clear set of criteria to confirm the diagnosis of scleroderma. Until then is only suspected/ possible/ likely. A rheumatologist should be able to confirm or rule it out based on symptoms, history, physical exam and review of diagnostic data.

Question 5

would scleroderma or another autoimmune disease cause a lumpy/bumpy texture underneath the skin all over? can only feel, not see.

Accepted Answer

Doubtful: Without external skin changes, scleroderma is unlikely. A physician would have to examine you to see whether there is abnormality of subcutaneous tissue diffusely. I am also dubious of the presence of systemic disease based only on your description, but if your physician agrees there could be pathology, he/she would refer you to the proper specialist.

Question 6

as a scleroderma patient, what kind of face wash can i use? before i was diagnosed i had oily skin and the product i was using then, for years, now dries me out. please help

Accepted Answer

Scleroderma: When skin has too much collagen, the amount of oil and lubrication that can get to the skin is reduced. Care for dry or stiff skin by using professional grade cream or ointment (aquaphor or CeraVe) or one containing over 10% Urea and use sunscreen regularly. Avoid hot baths and showers and exposure to strong soaps/household chemicals, which can irritate/dry. Talk to your Dr about steroid creams.

Question 7

does scleroderma present as a small round redness on skin right above the ankle and nothing else?

Accepted Answer

Rarely: There are localized forms of scleroderma although these are rare.  A dermatologist should be able to tell you for certain.

Question 8

what happens to the skin if you both have ehlers danlos (thinner and elastic skin) and scleroderma (thicker and stiffer skin)? any skin changes?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Hi TakaishiS
It might seem the two would cancel each other (EDS involves less effective collagen and stretchy skin, SD involves XS collagen deposition) but unfortunately it seems to be somewhat additive. Suggest you check our 
http://prettyill.com/forums/viewthread/531/#2699  and continue working with your regular practitioner.

Question 9

my grandmother and mother passed from systemic scleroderma. what is the fastest way to get the diagnosis other than skin biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Rheumatologist: If you wish to be screened for scleroderma, I suggest that you consult a rheumatologist.

Question 10

i have burning and itching in my rectal area but it is not hemroids. i have scleroderma and was told the disease has changed the skin in  my anus?

Accepted Answer

Anal Itching: Causes of anal itching include: dry skin, too much moisture, fecal incontinence, excessive washing, overuse of laxatives, chemical irritants, skin disorders, yeast infections, hemorrhoids, anal abrasions, fissures and fistulas, food irritants, medications, infections, anal tumors, other causes.

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Doctor answers about:

Green bumps under skin scleroderma

A member asked:

Which layer of skin does scleroderma affect?

A member asked:

Need to clarify so scleroderma can affect bladder only without any organ or skin involvement?

A member asked:

What is "skin thickening" or "hardening" in scleroderma?

A member asked:

Just because i have some calcium deposits on the skin, it doesn't necessarily mean i have scleroderma...or does it? they're not clusters.

A member asked:

Would scleroderma or another autoimmune disease cause a lumpy/bumpy texture underneath the skin all over? can only feel, not see.

A member asked:

As a scleroderma patient, what kind of face wash can i use? before i was diagnosed i had oily skin and the product i was using then, for years, now dries me out. please help

A member asked:

Does scleroderma present as a small round redness on skin right above the ankle and nothing else?

A member asked:

What happens to the skin if you both have ehlers danlos (thinner and elastic skin) and scleroderma (thicker and stiffer skin)? any skin changes?

A member asked:

My grandmother and mother passed from systemic scleroderma. what is the fastest way to get the diagnosis other than skin biopsy?

A member asked:

I have burning and itching in my rectal area but it is not hemroids. i have scleroderma and was told the disease has changed the skin in my anus?

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