Scleroderma Complications: What Is Scleroderma Renal Crisis?

Scleroderma renal crisis a problem that may occur in patients who suffer from scleroderma — an autoimmune condition that causes an overproduction and accumulation of collagen in the tissue, affecting the skin and internal organs, including the kidneys. In this Demystifying Medicine video from McMaster University, learn more about this rare but potentially severe complication from scleroderma.

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“Many complications can arise due to scleroderma and they range from mild to severe,” the video which was developed by HTH SCI 4DM3 students Sarah Gabrial, Hussain Abbas, Renuka Singh, Justin Wu and Aaron Edward explains. “The main focus of this video is one of the main serious complications that affect the kidney and it is known as scleroderma renal crisis.”

According to the video, recent estimates state that 1.1 percent of patients diagnosed with limited scleroderma and 4.2 percent with diffused scleroderma suffer from scleroderma renal crisis. Despite being rare, the condition can be dangerous. It is characterized by acute onset renal failure, abrupt onset of moderate to marked hypertension, and a urine sediment that is usually normal or reveals only mild proteinuria with few cells or casts.

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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 another 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.