1. a systemic disease characterized by formation of hyalinized and thickened
collagenous fibrous tissue, with thickening of the skin and adhesion to underlying
tissues (especially of the hands and face), dysphagia due to loss of peristalsis and
submucosal fibrosis of the esophagus, dyspnea due to pulmonary fibrosis,
myocardial fibrosis, and renal vascular changes resembling those of malignant
hypertension; Raynaud phenomenon, atrophy of the soft tissues, and osteoporosis of
the distal phalanges (acrosclerosis), sometimes with gangrene at the ends of the
digits, are common findings. The term progressive systemic sclerosis is commonly
used and is appropriate for cases with initially widespread skin involvement
including the trunk. However, when skin involvement is limited to the distal
extremities and face, there is often prolonged delay in appearance of visceral
manifestations. See Also: CREST syndrome.
2. Syn: scleroderma.
