CREST syndrome (Calcinosis Raynaud's Esophagus Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia)
CREST syndrome (Calcinosis Raynaud's Esophagus Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia) Causes
The immune system signals fibroblasts to overproduce collagen, the most abundant protein in our body and the main component of ligaments and tendons. Genetics, hormones and environmental factors also play a role in the development of the disease.
CREST syndrome (Calcinosis Raynaud's Esophagus Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia) Definition
CREST syndrome (Calcinosis Raynaud's Esophagus Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia) is a disorder caused by a glitch in our connective tissues, the substance found outside our cells that hold the tissues and organs of our bodies together. It can be a benign condition that won't affect our bodily functions, yet in some cases it can be serious and fatal. A subset of sleroderma, it causes problems in the skin and blood vessels, and in extreme cases, lungs, digestive tract or heart.
CREST syndrome (Calcinosis Raynaud's Esophagus Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia) Diagnosis
Doctors will need the patient's medical history, as well as skin biopsy and laboratory tests to conclude if one has CREST syndrome.
CREST syndrome (Calcinosis Raynaud's Esophagus Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia) Symptoms and Signs
The name of this disease is the acronym for its symptoms and signs: Calcinosi - calcium deposits build up under your skin, on the elbows, knees and fingers, legs and spine. This may cause infection Raynaud's phenomenon - this is the first sign that an individual has this disease. This is characterized by numbness, pain, and color changes in your fingers. Esphageal dysfunction - esophagus may not perform well causing difficulty in swallowing, as well as other complications Sclerodactyly - skin thickening Telangiectasia - dilated blood vessels on the skin's surface are observed on the face, hands, lips, and lining of intestinal tract
CREST syndrome (Calcinosis Raynaud's Esophagus Sclerodactyly Telangiectasia) Treatment
Though there is no known cure for the disease, a patient may avail of therapies to manage the disease. A patient should also exercise regularly, quit smoking, protect himself from cold, manage stress and keep skin moist.