musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Systemic Sclerosis
Key Points
Key findings in systemic sclerosis include skin and joint changes, Raynaud syndrome, and esophageal changes, but life-threatening manifestations may involve organs such as the lungs, heart, or kidneys. Consider the diagnosis if patients have Raynaud syndrome, typical musculoskeletal or skin manifestations, or unexplained dysphagia, malabsorption, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, cardiomyopathies, or conduction disturbances. Test for ANA, Scl-70 (topoisomerase I), and anticentromere antibodies. Because there is no clear disease-modifying therapy, direct treatment at involved organs. 