How does scleroderma cause renal crisis?

Scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) is an infrequent but serious complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc). It is associated with increased vascular permeability, activation of coagulation cascade, and renin secretion, which may lead to the acute renal failure typically associated with accelerated hypertension.

How is scleroderma renal crisis diagnosed?

In cases that are not clear, serological testing for various causes of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis would be indicated. In patients who develop scleroderma renal crisis as the initial manifestation of scleroderma, renal biopsy may be the only way to clinch the diagnosis.

What is scleroderma renal crisis symptoms?

Renal crisis, a highly dangerous complication of systemic scleroderma, may occur quite quickly. The most important warning sign is a sudden rise in blood pressure. Other symptoms are headache, visual disturbances, shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, or mental confusion.

What does crest syndrome mean?

Limited scleroderma, also known as CREST syndrome, is one subtype of scleroderma — a condition whose name means “hardened skin.” The skin changes associated with limited scleroderma typically occur only in the lower arms and legs, below the elbows and knees, and sometimes affect the face and neck.

Why is renal failure a complication of scleroderma?

In scleroderma renal crisis, some unknown event triggers blood vessel spasm and additional damage. This triggers aggressive high blood pressure which, in turn, leads to more kidney damage. The photograph illustrates the blood vessel damage. These are angiograms showing the blood vessel circulation.

How does scleroderma affect renal?

Pathophysiology. Scleroderma patients with normal kidney function develop blood vessel changes in their kidneys which is very similar to that seen in the fingers, lungs and other organs. In most patients, this damage is silent and does not affect health outcome.

What is scleroderma crisis?

Scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) is a major complication in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). It is characterized by malignant hypertension and oligo/anuric acute renal failure. SRC occurs in 5% of patients with SSc, particularly in the first years of disease evolution and in the diffuse form.

Is CREST syndrome life threatening?

Some have problems with their GI tract, especially heartburn; severe Raynaud’s and musculoskeletal pain; and a small subset can develop pulmonary hypertension that can be life-threatening. A subtype of limited scleroderma is also known as CREST syndrome.

Is Turmeric Good for scleroderma?

Recent research shows that curcumin, a component of turmeric, may benefit people who suffer from scleroderma.

What is End Stage scleroderma?

This type of scleroderma is typically accompanied by shortness of breath, a persistent cough, and the inability to perform routine physical activities. End-stage scleroderma often causes pulmonary fibrosis and/or pulmonary hypertension, both of which can be life-threatening.

Can you live a full life with scleroderma?

Many people have a good scleroderma prognosis – they do not die of the disease and live a full and productive life. However, some people do die from scleroderma, for example those with severe lung, heart or kidney involvement.