Dermatologist Houston - Patient Portal
New Patients: 281 771-0494 Existing Patients: (281) 395-7770
Katy Location

22028-C Highland Knolls
Katy, TX 77450 | Get Direction

Houston Location

St. Joseph's Professional Building. 2000 Crawford, Suite 1530, Houston, TX 77002 | Get Direction



“I came to this clinic because of my friend’s excitement about her experiences here. I have noticed dramatic changes in her. She told me she had microdermabrasion so….that is what I wanted. I had no intention of getting Botox. But after consultations I decided to go for it and the end result is absolute excitement! I had no intention of getting that treatment but now I could be the poster girl for Botox! I Love It!! People started noticing that I looked younger in 2 days! I feel sinful for the number of times I want to check myself out in the mirror.

I told my friend that I had received Botox and it turned out that she did too….she just didn’t tell me. We are both very happy with the results and also the warm, caring staff that make the experience complete.

Thank you,”
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Scleroderma

What is scleroderma?

This condition takes its name from the Greek root word skleros, which means hard, and derma, which means relating to the skin. It is an autoimmune disorder, causing the skin as well as other tissues to harden. It is not cancerous, contagious, or infectious.

Scleroderma is a chronic disease, affecting about 300,000 Americans. It typically develops between the age of 25 and 55, and it progresses over time.

What causes scleroderma?

This condition is the result of excess collagen production. Although the cause of the excess collagen is not clear, it appears to be associated with the immune system. There are two forms:

Localized scleroderma affects only the skin.

Systemic scleroderma affects the skin, as well as other tissues and organs such as the lungs, kidneys, heart, intestines, and gall bladder.

Symptoms of scleroderma

Some of the most common signs include:

  • Unusually light or dark skin.
  • Changes in the coloring of the fingers or toes when exposed to cold or heat.
  • Hardening or thickening skin.
  • Shiny skin on the forearms and hands.
  • Small lumps, white in color, forming beneath the surface of the skin.
  • Tightness of the facial skin.
  • Ulcers on the toes or fingers.

Scleroderma treatment at Dr. W Dermatology

Unfortunately, this condition cannot be cured; however, medications can help to slow the progression and ease the symptoms. Treatment will depend on the type and severity of the condition. It may include:

  • Biological medications that suppress the over-activity of the immune system.
  • Medications to stabilize blood pressure can help the functionality of the lungs and kidneys.
  • Occupational or physical therapy is helpful for many patients.
  • In some cases, surgical intervention is required.

Although scleroderma is less common than many familiar skin diseases like acne, it can be devastating for those affected. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned, or you have any other persistent, unknown skin problem, visit Dr. W Dermatology. You can call 281 771-0494 to schedule an appointment at either of our locations. We have offices in Katy and Houston for your convenience.