Etymed
systemic sclerosis
Definition
A systemic autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis and hardening of the skin and internal organs
Clinical context
A 45-year-old woman presents with progressive tightening of her skin over the past 6 months, particularly on her fingers and face. She reports difficulty opening her mouth wide and has experienced shortness of breath with minimal exertion. On examination, her fingers show tight, waxy skin that tents when pinched, and she has diffuse lung fibrosis on imaging.
Mnemonic
SCLEROSIS = Skin changes, Circulation problems, and Organ damage - 'Sick Circles Leading to Organ Scars'