Causes Of Scleroderma

The exact cause of scleroderma is unknown. However, we know that the hardening of the skin is as a result of excess collagen produced in the body, but the real reason behind the production of excess collagen is still a mystery.

Researchers believe that there must be something detrimental in the immune system, which causes the body to produce too much collagen. Perhaps the excess collagen production could be a form of reaction to something in the environment or inside the person’s body. Despite the uncertainty of the exact cause of scleroderma, one must not forget that it is not an infection, neither is it contagious nor a type of skin cancer.

Nonetheless, it is still a skin defect and requires the services of a dermatologist. Clear skin London has an exceptional team of experienced dermatologists in London that will handle any case of scleroderma or other skin diseases. There have been speculations as to whether or not silica dust would be a risk factor, because reports dating back to 1914, show that scleroderma was common in people who were exposed to silica dust.

Genes were also considered, because some children who have been affected by morphea (a type of scleroderma), had a family member who had suffered from morphea as well.

Don’t hesitate to visit our office at Dermatologist Harley street London or call 020 71833648. We are always happy to help!

Who Is At Risk?

Scleroderma is not a common skin disease. However, some factors can place certain people at risk of having scleroderma. These factors are;

1. Age

Although anyone, whether young or old, can get scleroderma, linear morphea tends to develop in people before they turn 18 years old. Other types are likely to begin from the ages of about 30 and 50 years of age.

2. Gender

Both women and men can have scleroderma; however, it is more common in women than men.

3. Race

Different types of scleroderma affect various parts of the body. Whites and Asians are at higher risk of having the kind that affects the skin and the underlying tissue beneath the skin. On the other hand, Africans and natives are more likely to have the type that affects the skin and internal organs.

Types Of Scleroderma

The types of scleroderma are dependent on the part or parts of the body affected. Therefore, scleroderma is classified into two types.

• The first group of scleroderma are the types that affect only the skin, and in some cases, the underlying tissues. If your infection affects the skin and underlying tissues, then you have localised scleroderma.
• The second group of scleroderma affects only the skin, but also an internal organ. This type is called systemic scleroderma

If you notice any problems with any part of your skin, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dermatologist London who will help in examining your skin to find out the extent of the infection. Contact us now on 020 71833648.

Localised Scleroderma

There are different types of localised scleroderma. They include;

1. Morphea

In this type of scleroderma, thick patches of skin appear in a few places, turning red or purple. It is usually painless but can cause a little itch. The excess collagen produced affects only the skin and rarely goes deep into the muscle tissues.

2. Linear Scleroderma

This type of scleroderma often starts during childhood or teenage years. It appears as a thick line of skin on an arm or leg. Depending on the severity of the infection, the thickness can go as deep as getting to the muscle, or even the bone.

3. Generalised Morphea

In this type of scleroderma, the thick areas develop on different areas of the body and can often grow together. Unlike the morphea that doesn’t exceed the skin layer, generalised morphea can go deep into the tissue under the skin. It can also show up on any part of the body like the arms, legs or back.

4. En Coup De Sabre

This skin thickening occurs on the scalp, face or both. It affects the tissue under the skin, causing tissue loss for both mild and severe cases. It can also disfigure the face.

The types of scleroderma mentioned above affect the skin layer, and in some cases, the tissue beneath. Rectifying this situation requires an experienced dermatologist, and we have a reputation for this at Clearskin London. 

You can visit us for treatment and examination. We are waiting!

Systemic Scleroderma

There are two types of systemic scleroderma. They are;

1. Diffuse Cutaneous Scleroderma

This is a severe type of scleroderma in which the infection has eaten deep into an internal organ. When this happens, the skin becomes hard and thickened in a matter of months or weeks. Movements can end up being restricted and painful as the individual may find it difficult to move parts that are affected.

2. Limited Cutaneous Scleroderma

Just like diffuse cutaneous scleroderma, the infection gets to an internal organ. It develops slowly, with the hard skin developing on parts of the body like the elbows and knees, and even on the face and neck.

Sometimes there can be evident calcium deposits under the skin. Even the affected internal organs also harden and become thick.

When the infection spreads to the internal organ, it becomes more severe and requires immediate medical attention. Don’t wait for it to get to this point before seeking medical help. Visit our dermatology clinic today to get examined and treated. Book an appointment now at Clearskin London. We are here to help.