Scleroderma (musculoskeletal manifestations)

Musculoskeletal manifestations of scleroderma are common and variable.

For a general discussion of scleroderma, please refer to the parent article: scleroderma.

Radiographic features

Plain radiograph

Imaging findings demonstrate bone and soft tissue changes. The hands are the most common site of involvement.

Bone changes:

• acro-osteolysis (resorption of the distal phalanges)
• periarticular osteopenia
• joint space narrowing
• erosions
• severe resorption of the first CMC joint with radial subluxation is a characteristic feature on hands radiographs 

Soft tissue changes:

• subcutaneous and periarticular calcification
• atrophy especially at tips of fingers
• flexion contractures

Other less common documented musculoskeletal findings:

• rib resorption (bilateral superior rib notching, predominantly along posterior surface), mandibular angle resorption (+/- loss of lamina dura), radius and ulna resorption
• terminal phalangeal sclerosis

Differential diagnosis

• rheumatoid arthritis

See also

• pulmonary manifestations of scleroderma
• cardiac manifestations of scleroderma
• gastrointestinal manifestations of scleroderma
• hepatobiliary manifestations of scleroderma
• renal manifestations of scleroderma
• differential diagnosis of erosive arthritis

Siehe auch:

• Systemische Sklerodermie
• Akroosteolyse
• pulmonary manifestations of scleroderma
• gastrointestinale Manifestationen Sklerodermie
• Arthropathie

und weiter:

• Sklerodermie Ösophagus
• Sklerodermie Finger