Connective Tissue Disease?

[marilynmcl]

Hi, when I had my rheumatologist appointment a few weeks ago, she told me she was referring me onto a connective tissue disease consultant as this was a doctor who has more experience with what is wrong with me...systemic scleroderma. So, is this a progression or a different disease altogether? Also, has anyone else had annoying skin spots on their nose and under their mouth...chin area? They seem to be scaly spots,not like acne or pimples.

[Sosie]

Hi, Systemic Sclerosis is a type of Connective Tissue Disease. It is good that you have been referred to a rheumatologist specialising in connective tissue diseases. Systemic Sclerosis is rare and complex so you want a rheumatologist who understands it to be treating you. I hope you get your appointment soon.

[marilynmcl in reply to Sosie]

I have an appointment for May, a Dr. Murphy at Wishaw hospital...so will just wait to see what she says. Many thanks for your reply.xxx

[Sosie in reply to marilynmcl]

Hi again, that is quite a long wait to see someone. If you have limited systemic sclerosis, it’s probably OK, but if you have diffuse, you should be seen sooner as it can progress very rapidly.

Do you have any letters between the rheumatologist you first saw and your GP, which might show your blood results or which type of scleroderma you have? Xx

[marilynmcl in reply to Sosie]

I know that it is limited sclerosis that has been diagnosed 4 years ago now.

[Sosie in reply to marilynmcl]

OK, good. Same as me. Hopefully you will find out more in May then. X

[MissusTee]

Hi,

Do you know what antibody status you have? This helps to differentiate the type of scleroderma that you might have. Also, are you sure that you don't have impetigo as this is very contagious.

[marilynmcl in reply to MissusTee]

No idea on antibody status, no one has said. I do have systemic sclerosis which is attacking my lungs...now have Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, along with COPD, and 2 other ailments. I am sure it isn't impetigo as I know what that looks like...used to work in hospital as lab assistant. The spots...if you could call them that...mainly seem to like my nose and come and go...today the skin on my nose is perfectly smooth but my chin is now lumpy scaly so it is a puzzle! Did ask online for my doctor's help as this is how my health centre is now doing things....but this was about 6 weeks ago and never got an answer. Will wait and see what my May appt. with the hospital will say. Thanks so much for replyingxxxx

[MissusTee in reply to marilynmcl]

There are 2 main types of scleroderma which have differing outcomes, ( there's also another that just affects the skin) so it might be worth asking your GP. There is diffuse systemic sclerosis and limited systemic sclerosis. The different antibodies will help to signify which type you might have. Can't help with the rash though!

[marilynmcl in reply to MissusTee]

hi, I have limited systemic sclerosis which has been diagnosed.