Systemic Sclerosis: Diagnosis and Treatment

Systemic sclerosis or systemic scleroderma is an autoimmune disease affecting the connective tissues of the body. It is characterized by injuries to small arteries and thickening of the skin caused by an accumulation of collagen. Systemic scleroderma affects the skin of the hands, feet and the face, but also progresses to the kidneys, lungs, heart and gastrointestinal tract. Some of the common symptoms of systemic sclerosis include the CREST syndrome, hardening and scarring of the skin, impairment in lung function, joint pains, etc. Diagnosis is based on the presence of autoantibodies or through a biopsy examination. Therapies for systemic sclerosis include immunosuppressive drugs as well as glucocorticoids. This book explores the clinical aspects of systemic sclerosis in the present day scenario. It strives to provide a fair idea about this disorder and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances in the understanding of this disease. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this area.