bone, joint, and muscle disorders
Systemic Sclerosis
Prognosis for Systemic Sclerosis
Sometimes systemic sclerosis worsens rapidly and becomes fatal (mainly with diffuse systemic sclerosis). At other times, it affects only the skin for decades before affecting internal organs, although some damage to internal organs (such as the esophagus) is almost inevitable. The course is unpredictable. Overall, 92% of people who have limited systemic sclerosis and 65% of people who have diffuse systemic sclerosis live for at least 10 years after the diagnosis is made. The prognosis is worst for those who are male, develop the disease later in life, have diffuse systemic sclerosis, or have heart, lung, or, particularly, kidney damage. The prognosis for people who have limited systemic sclerosis (CREST syndrome) tends to be more favorable. 