Best Doctors for Scleroderma in Mysore

Types/Stages of Scleroderma

There are two primary types of scleroderma:

• Localised Scleroderma (Morphea): It affects only the skin, leading to patches of hardened skin.

• Systemic Scleroderma: A more severe form that not only involves the skin but also blood vessels and internal organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, heart, lungs or kidneys.

Symptoms of Scleroderma

Scleroderma manifests through various symptoms which include:

• Skin thickening and tightening particularly on fingers, hands, face, and lower arms

• Raynaud’s phenomenon where fingers/toes change colour – white, blue or red in response to cold or stress

• Digestive issues like heartburn, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation

• Respiratory problems such as shortness of breath and lung scarring

• Heart complications like irregular heartbeats and heart failure

Tests to Diagnose Scleroderma

To diagnose scleroderma, the following tests are commonly recommended by surgeons for sclerodactyly:

• Blood Tests: To check for certain antibodies produced by the immune system.

• Skin Biopsy: A small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope to diagnose this condition.

• Pulmonary Function Tests: To assess lung function, these tests are conducted.

• Echocardiogram: A non-invasive test that uses sound waves to visualise the heart and detect any heart or blood vessel involvement.

• Imaging Tests: X-ray, CT scan or MRI to detect changes to internal organs.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Scleroderma at Apollo Hospitals, Mysore

At Apollo Hospitals in Mysore, expert surgeons for skin thickening treatment and the best doctors for gastrointestinal involvement and other organs personalise scleroderma treatments to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Some of the treatment options include:

• Medication Regime: Oral or topical medicines to provide symptomatic relief, such as to dilate blood vessels, suppress the immune system or reduce digestive symptoms, may be recommended.

• Physical/Occupational Therapy: Therapy can help maintain mobility and function.

• Surgical Procedures: In severe cases, where organs have been affected, transplants may be performed.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Changes in diet, exercise routines and stress management techniques can complement medical treatments.