20 Facts You Should Know About Pediatric Scleroderma

According to the Cleveland Clinic, although scleroderma may be similar in patients of all ages, there are some specific characteristics that are more pronounced in children.

Pediatric scleroderma is divided into systemic and localized diseases, which is further differentiated into subtypes based on clinical findings of skin involvement.

1. There are two types of pediatric scleroderma: localized scleroderma and systemic scleroderma

2. Localized scleroderma is more common in children, usually only affecting the skin. In some cases, it might spread to the underlying muscles.

3. Children with systemic sclerosis may have more widespread skin changes which may result in limited joint movement.

4. Raynaud’s phenomenon may be present early in a child with systemic sclerosis.

According to the Scleroderma Foundation, while there is no proven cure for scleroderma, much can be done to prevent, minimize or alleviate its effects and symptoms. 

5. Fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and joint pain may also be present early in a child with systemic sclerosis.

6. Children with systemic sclerosis should be checked often in order to detect and possibly treat potential internal organ involvement.

7. Scleroderma, both in children and adults, is NOT contagious, so people cannot “catch it” or pass it on to someone else.

8. There are between 5,000 and 7,000 children diagnosed with scleroderma in the United States.

Here’s another story from a chronic illness patient. Wyatt Wright a.k.a Wyatt The Warrior is a nine-year-old boy who was diagnosed with localized scleroderma (linear) at the age of eight.

9. 1.5% of all scleroderma patients will develop it before the age of 10.

10. 7 % of all scleroderma patients will develop it between the ages of 10 and 19.

11. The mean age of onset for both forms of pediatric scleroderma is between 7.3 and 8.8 years of age

12. Approximately two-thirds of children with scleroderma are female.

A healthy diet does not cure scleroderma, but nutrition is essential for patients’ overall health.

13. There is no clear evidence for racial predilection for either form of pediatric scleroderma.

14. There is still no cure for scleroderma but with an early diagnosis, it can be managed and treated.

15. Treatment is specialized and focused for each child. It will vary depending on his or her overall health, type of scleroderma, medical history, the presence of other symptoms and its severity.

16. Scleroderma management often includes family counseling regarding emotional, financial, cosmetic, disability, and social issues.

Here are some scleroderma-related conditions you should look out for according to the Scleroderma Foundation.

17. The outlook will depend on the type of scleroderma, whether or not there is internal organ involvement, and where and how much skin is affected.

18. In systemic sclerosis, children who have lung, kidney or heart problems usually have the greatest risk for complications.

19. While localized scleroderma usually progresses in the early stages, it will often stop spreading and changing after the first three to four years. In some cases, it might even be resolved by adulthood.

20. Scleroderma does not usually go away, but it is possible for it to remain at the same level without getting any worse for several years.

Looking for more facts? Here are 10 autoimmune facts and statistics.

Scleroderma News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.