Systemic Sclerosis Specialist
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Advanced Arthritis and Rheumatology Center
Dipti Doshi, MD
Rheumatologist located in Cerritos, CA
Systemic sclerosis is a rare disease that’s four times more common in women than men. It usually affects people between the ages of 20-50 and occurs with little warning. At Advanced Arthritis and Rheumatology Center in Cerritos, California, board-certified rheumatologist Dipti Doshi, MD, and her team specialize in diagnosing and treating systemic sclerosis. Dr. Doshi has done extensive research in systemic sclerosis. If you want to take steps to improve your quality of life, schedule an appointment today. Call the office to speak with a friendly team member or book a consultation online.
Systemic Sclerosis Q&A
What is systemic sclerosis?
Systemic sclerosis, or scleroderma, is a group of chronic illnesses that cause your skin and connective tissues to become hard and tight. There are several types of scleroderma. Some only affect the skin; others affect your blood vessels, internal organs, or digestive tract.
There’s no cure for systemic sclerosis, but with prompt diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to ease symptoms and live a healthy life.
What are the symptoms of systemic sclerosis?
The symptoms of systemic sclerosis vary from person to person and depend on what part of the body is affected. Common indications of systemic sclerosis include:
- Hard or tight patches of skin
- Blue fingers or toes (Raynaud’s disease)
- Digestive problems, including diarrhea, bloating, or stomach cramps
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Shiny skin
Systemic sclerosis can also affect the lungs, heart, and kidneys. Over time, these problems can become life-threatening and result in hospitalizations or premature death.
What causes systemic sclerosis?
Systemic sclerosis occurs due to an overproduction of collagen. Collagen is a fibrous protein that’s in your skin and other connective tissues throughout the body. Experts aren’t entirely sure why excess collagen production occurs, but your immune system plays a role.
Other factors contribute to the onset of systemic sclerosis as well, including immune system problems, genetics, and environmental triggers.
How is systemic sclerosis diagnosed?
Systemic sclerosis can affect nearly every part of your body, making it somewhat difficult to diagnose. At your initial appointment, your Advanced Arthritis and Rheumatology Center provider conducts a physical exam, asks you about your symptoms, and reviews your medical history.
After gathering this information, they order blood tests to check for elevated levels of certain antibodies produced by your immune system and also give you an appropriate radiological evaluation. If necessary, your provider might also take a small sample of skin (biopsy) for further testing. We are expert in early diagnosis and treatment for systemic sclerosis.
How is systemic sclerosis treated?
At Advanced Arthritis and Rheumatology Center, treatment for systemic sclerosis usually involves a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, prescription medications, and physical therapy. For early diagnosis and treatment, Dr. Doshi also recommends involvement of pulmonologist and cardiologist.
For example, your provider might recommend exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and taking good care of your skin. The type of medication prescribed depends on the symptoms you’re experiencing.
They might also recommend creams or pills to protect your skin, blood pressure medications to dilate blood vessels, or antibiotic ointments to treat infections.
Combined, these treatment measures can minimize uncomfortable symptoms and help you live a healthy, active life.
To schedule your appointment for systemic sclerosis at Advanced Arthritis and Rheumatology Center, call the office or book online today.
