Scleroderma (SS) is a complex autoimmune disease. Like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis, it is a chronic—often progressive—disease in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues.

Scleroderma, which literally means "hard skin," can cause thickening and tightening of the skin, as well as serious damage to internal organs including the lungs, heart, kidneys, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. It is often life-threatening. There are several different "kinds" of SS. It can effect the body in a variety of ways. Some forms generally involve the skin only. Others a combination of the skin and internal organs. The term systemic sclerosis means the scleroderma is found to be throughout the body, and could affect the body as a whole - skin AND internal organs.

Scleroderma occurs three to four times more often in women than in men. It is usually diagnosed between the ages of 25 -45. It is vary rare in children, and the systemic kind is even more rarely seen. Alivia has systemic sclerosis.

THE SCLERODERMA FOUNDATION

The SF has been a great resource for me. Their website: www.scleroderma.org  has all the latest information on SS. This includes information about research being done, and advances in treatment. The site also has information on helpful products designed specifically for people dealing with SS. The foundation publishes a quarterly magazine called Scleroderma Voice. Alivia was featured in this spring's edition!

The Scleroderma Foundation:  300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923 · Phone 978-463-5843 · 800-722-HOPE (4673)