SSc skin refers to the skin manifestations of systemic sclerosis (SSc), a chronic autoimmune disease. Almost all individuals with SSc experience skin thickening, often starting in the hands but potentially spreading across the entire body. This skin thickening is a hallmark of the disease.
Understanding Systemic Sclerosis (SSc)
The term scleroderma originates from the Greek words skleros (hard) and derma (skin). When scleroderma only impacts the skin, it's considered "localized." However, SSc is the systemic form, affecting both the skin and internal organs. SSc is characterized by widespread vascular dysfunction and progressive fibrosis (scarring) of the skin and internal organs.
Key Characteristics of SSc Skin
- Thickening: The skin becomes noticeably thickened and hardened.
- Location: While often beginning in the hands, it can spread to other body areas.
- Severity: The extent of skin involvement helps classify SSc into diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) or limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc).
- Fibrosis: The thickening results from excessive collagen deposition, a hallmark of fibrosis.
- Senescent Cells: Studies show an accumulation of senescent (aging) cells in SSc skin, contributing to the disease process.
Differentiating SSc from Other Skin Conditions
It's crucial to distinguish SSc skin from other skin conditions. For example, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a common type of skin cancer, is characterized by abnormal, accelerated cell growth, unlike the fibrosis seen in SSc.
While "skin-to-skin contact (SSC)" is a beneficial practice for newborns, it is unrelated to the skin manifestations of systemic sclerosis.
