Kristen Bortke, Shay Cook, Brandi Davidson, Shawna Dietz, Lenae Schneider, & Jordan Taghon

CREST Syndrome is a standard abbreviation to use when summing up the classical signs and symptoms of scleroderma, specifically limited scleroderma.

C- Calcinosis ->Abnormal deposition of calcium salts in the tissue

R – Raynaud’s Phenomenon -> Early sign as fibrosis blocks small vessels in the hands. Herrick (2012) states, "Raynaud's Phenomenon is a clinical diagnosis  based on colour change of the fingers in response to cold or emotional stress". 

E – Esophageal Dysfunction -> Hardening of the esophagus due to fibrosis of the tissue, reducing motility

S – Sclerodactyly -> Fingers hardening, difficult to bend fingers due to fibrosis

T – Telangiectasia -> Dilation of groups of small blood vessels, usually in the face and thighs. Usually has no pain and shows appearance of vessels on face.

 

Most of the symptoms depend on what form of scleroderma the person has, how progressed it is, and what organs in particular are affected:

 

Cardiovascular: Palpitations; Irregular Heart Rate; Fainting; Hypertension; Congest Heart Failure

Gastrointestinal: GERD; Bloating; Indigestion; Diarrhea/Constipation

Pulmonary: Shortness of breath; Chest pain; Dry and persistent cough; Respiratory Distress / Depression

Musculoskeletal: Weakness; Aches of joints and muscles; Decreased range of motion; Carpal tunnel syndrome

Neurological: Facial pain related to trigeminal neuralgia; Headache; Stroke

General/Skin: Fatigue; Weight Loss; Waxy patches