Scleroderma

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High Yield Notes

13 pages

Flashcards

Scleroderma

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Questions

USMLE® Step 1 style questions USMLE

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A 41-year-old woman comes to her outpatient provider for evaluation of fatigue and dyspnea on exertion that started five months ago. The patient previously enjoyed biking on the weekends, but she has been unable to do so because of her symptoms. Past medical history is notable for seasonal allergies. She is currently not taking any medications. In the office, her temperature is 37.1°C (98.8°F), blood pressure is 128/88 mmHg, and pulse is 73/min. Physical examination is notable for diffuse skin thickening and telangiectasias. On cardiac examination, there is a loud S2 at the left upper sternal border. A chest x-ray is ordered, and the results are as follows:  



Image reproduced from Radiopedia 

Which of the following findings is most likely to be seen in this patient?  

External References

First Aid

2024

2023

2022

2021

Anti-centromere antibodies p. 724

scleroderma p. 481

CREST syndrome (limited scleroderma)

Diffuse scleroderma p. 481

Limited scleroderma p. 481

Limited scleroderma (CREST syndrome)

Scleroderma p. 481

labs/findings p. 724, 728

Scleroderma (diffuse)

autoantibody p. 113

Summary

Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by progressive fibrosis of skin and internal organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, heart, and kidneys. The exact cause is unknown but is associated with autoimmune processes that lead to excessive collagen production in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Scleroderma can be either limited or diffuse, with symptoms varying according to the organs involved. Treatment options involve immunosuppressants and medications to relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

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