The topic Diffuse Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis (dcSSc) you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma.

Quick Summary:

• Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma is a subtype of Scleroderma that affects the skin and a variety of organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, heart, muscles, and joints, causing severe damage to them
• Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disorder of unknown cause. Connective tissues give support to the organs and skin. Individuals with Scleroderma have thick or hard connective tissue

There is currently a debate about how Scleroderma should be classified. A majority believe that it should be classified as an autoimmune rheumatic disorder. Due to this, many researchers believe that the damage is caused by immune cells mistakenly attacking one’s own healthy tissue.

Scleroderma can be classified into 2 broad categories, which include Localized Scleroderma and Systemic Scleroderma:

• Localized Scleroderma:
  • It often affects the skin tissues only and does not cause harm to the other major organs
  • There are two types of Localized Scleroderma, namely Morphea and Localized Linear Scleroderma
• Systemic Scleroderma:
  • It affects the skin, tissues beneath the skin, major organs, and blood vessels
  • Systemic Scleroderma also has 2 different types, namely Limited Systemic Scleroderma and Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma    

Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma is a type of Systemic Scleroderma of unknown cause.

• Commonly, the organs involved include the esophagus , stomach, small intestines, large intestines, heart, muscles, joints, blood vessels, and kidneys
• The complications of Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma include physical hardening of the organs due to abnormal fibrosis of the tissue. This can severely affect the organ function, scar several organ tissues, and create additional complications due to Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Typically, Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma progresses quickly, resulting in severe signs and symptoms and  life-threatening complications
• There is currently no cure for Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma, but medications, therapy, and surgery may be used to control symptoms and prevent complications. The treatment measures are dependent upon the tissues or organs affected
• The way Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma changes and progresses over time vary among individuals. The rapidity of progression of signs and symptoms and the organs involved affects the prognosis. Typically, individuals who respond to treatment have a better prognosis than individuals who do not respond to treatment

Please find comprehensive information on Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.