Understanding CREST Scleroderma
Scleroderma may be considered either limited or diffused.
Both variation of the condition are progressive in nature, but the limited variety, sometimes referred to as CREST Scleroderma is less serious than its diffuse counterpart.
CREST Scleroderma is distinguishable from diffuse Scleroderma on at least two levels.
First, the condition will, in most cases, fail to attack internal organs.
Second, many patients with limited Scleroderma are able to avoid the most serious symptoms associated with the malady.
While the risk of pulmonary hypertension is important to note in CREST cases, other extremely serious conditions that accompany diffuse Scleroderma are usually absent.
CREST is an acronym used to describe some of limited Scleroderma's most common symptoms: The "C" in CREST stands for Calcinosis.
This is when deposits form beneath the skin, often near the joints.
Superficial ulcers often form over the deposits.
The "R" in CREST stands for Raynaud's phenomenon.
Those who suffer from Raynaud's often find their fingers extremely sensitive to cold temperatures.
Changes in the area's smaller blood vessels hold back the usual flow of blood, contributing to the sensitivity and allowing the cold to linger long after it would normally dissipate.
The "E" in CREST refers to Esophageal motility dysfunction.
This occurs when Scleroderma scars the muscles of esophagus, rendering them unable to contract as they should.
This can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disorder and painful heartburn.
The "S" in CREST refers to Sclerodactylia, a tightening of the skin around the fingers.
This is often one of the most noticeable symptoms of CREST Scleroderma and it can contribute to bone loss as well as the pain and discomfort associated with stiffness.
The "T" in CREST stands for Telangiectasia.
This is evidenced by the red marks that form on the face, tongue and hands of those suffer from CREST Scleroderma.
One doesn't need to exhibit all of these symptoms to receive a CREST diagnosis.
In many cases, the presence of two or three elements will be enough to convince a physician to make that assessment.
The nature of the observed symptoms may be expressed by capitalizing the relevant portions of the acronym.
For instance, someone who experienced Raynaud's symptoms, Esophageal motility dysfunction and Telangiectasia may be referred to as a cREsT Scleroderma case.
While limited, or CREST, Scleroderma may not have the severe repercussions associated with diffuse Scleroderma, it is still a serious medical matter and should be taken quite seriously.
The condition is progressive and warrants constant monitoring.
Both variation of the condition are progressive in nature, but the limited variety, sometimes referred to as CREST Scleroderma is less serious than its diffuse counterpart.
CREST Scleroderma is distinguishable from diffuse Scleroderma on at least two levels.
First, the condition will, in most cases, fail to attack internal organs.
Second, many patients with limited Scleroderma are able to avoid the most serious symptoms associated with the malady.
While the risk of pulmonary hypertension is important to note in CREST cases, other extremely serious conditions that accompany diffuse Scleroderma are usually absent.
CREST is an acronym used to describe some of limited Scleroderma's most common symptoms: The "C" in CREST stands for Calcinosis.
This is when deposits form beneath the skin, often near the joints.
Superficial ulcers often form over the deposits.
The "R" in CREST stands for Raynaud's phenomenon.
Those who suffer from Raynaud's often find their fingers extremely sensitive to cold temperatures.
Changes in the area's smaller blood vessels hold back the usual flow of blood, contributing to the sensitivity and allowing the cold to linger long after it would normally dissipate.
The "E" in CREST refers to Esophageal motility dysfunction.
This occurs when Scleroderma scars the muscles of esophagus, rendering them unable to contract as they should.
This can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disorder and painful heartburn.
The "S" in CREST refers to Sclerodactylia, a tightening of the skin around the fingers.
This is often one of the most noticeable symptoms of CREST Scleroderma and it can contribute to bone loss as well as the pain and discomfort associated with stiffness.
The "T" in CREST stands for Telangiectasia.
This is evidenced by the red marks that form on the face, tongue and hands of those suffer from CREST Scleroderma.
One doesn't need to exhibit all of these symptoms to receive a CREST diagnosis.
In many cases, the presence of two or three elements will be enough to convince a physician to make that assessment.
The nature of the observed symptoms may be expressed by capitalizing the relevant portions of the acronym.
For instance, someone who experienced Raynaud's symptoms, Esophageal motility dysfunction and Telangiectasia may be referred to as a cREsT Scleroderma case.
While limited, or CREST, Scleroderma may not have the severe repercussions associated with diffuse Scleroderma, it is still a serious medical matter and should be taken quite seriously.
The condition is progressive and warrants constant monitoring.
