Issue 8/2023
Reshkova, V., Monov, S.
Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital “St. Ivan Rilski“
Medical University, Departement of Rheumatology – Sofia
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs, pronounced alteration in the microvasculature and frequent cellular and humoral immunity abnormalities. The distinction between localized and SSc is based on visceral involvement. Localised scleroderma is restricted to fibrotic involvement of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, while SSc affect also the internal organs. There are histopathological, pathogenetic and serological features common to the localized and systemic form of scleroderma, suggesting similar pathogenetic mechanisms and a possibility of a common genetic or environmental predisposition. SSc can also overlap with other autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis and rheumatoid arthritis (overlap syndromes).
Key words: Systemic sclerosis, autoimmune disease
Address for correspondence:
Reshkova, V. Clinic of Rheumatology,
UMBAL “St. Ivan Rilski”, Medical University,
Department of Rheumatology
13, “Urvich” Str.
1612, Sofia
e-mail: v_reshkova@abv.bg