Scleroderma Treatment in Turkey
About Scleroderma
Key Highlights
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Provides expert diagnosis and classification of the disease subtype (localized vs. systemic).Offers specialized management for skin-specific symptoms like tightening, itching, and ulcers.Focuses on improving skin mobility, texture, and overall appearance.Coordinates care with rheumatologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists for comprehensive systemic management.Utilizes non-invasive imaging tools like ultrasound or capillaroscopy for assessment.Helps prevent and manage serious skin complications, such as digital ulcers and calcinosis./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Presence of hardened, thickened, or tight skin patches (morphea or linear scleroderma).
- Raynaud's phenomenon accompanied by skin changes.
- Development of skin ulcers, particularly on fingertips (digital ulcers).
- Itching (pruritus) or pain associated with skin tightening.
- Changes in skin pigmentation or development of small, chalky deposits under the skin (calcinosis).
- Reduced mouth opening (microstomia) or tightening of skin around joints limiting mobility.
- As part of the diagnostic workup for suspected systemic sclerosis.
How to prepare
- Compile a complete medical history, including all symptoms and their progression.
- Bring a list of all current medications, supplements, and prior treatments.
- Be prepared for a full-body skin examination; wear comfortable, accessible clothing.
- For a potential skin biopsy, avoid blood-thinning medications (like aspirin or ibuprofen) as advised by the doctor.
- Discuss any allergies, especially to local anesthetics or antiseptics.
- Mentally prepare for a detailed discussion about symptoms and potential long-term management plans.
Risks & possible complications
- Skin biopsy risks: Minor bleeding, infection, scarring, or allergic reaction to local anesthetic.
- Medication side effects: These vary widely but can include stomach upset, increased infection risk, liver or kidney issues, or high blood pressure.
- Progression of disease: Treatments manage symptoms but do not cure scleroderma; internal organ involvement may still progress.
- Wound care complications: For ulcers, risks include delayed healing, secondary infection, or tissue necrosis.
- Psychological impact: Chronic disease management can lead to stress, anxiety, or depression.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Post-biopsy: Keep the site clean and dry as per instructions; watch for signs of infection.
- Skin Care: Diligently use prescribed moisturizers and emollients; protect skin from cold and injury.
- Medication Adherence: Take all prescribed medications consistently and report any side effects promptly.
- Physical Therapy: Perform recommended exercises and stretches to maintain joint mobility and skin pliability.
- Wound Management: For ulcers, follow strict cleansing, dressing, and off-loading protocols.
- Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments for monitoring of skin and potential systemic involvement.
- Lifestyle: Quit smoking absolutely, manage stress, and maintain a balanced diet to support overall health.
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Typical hospital stay:
Usually outpatient (0 days)
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Expected recovery time:
Ongoing management (chronic condition)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering scleroderma in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with dermatology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform scleroderma. MediFyr helps you compare dermatologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for scleroderma compare across other countries where we have data.
Robert Jones, a 58-year-old construction foreman,...
Robert Jones, a 58-year-old construction foreman, had always prided himself on his tough, weathered hands. Over the past two years, however, he noticed his fingers becoming stiff, shiny, and tight, making it difficult to grip tools. They would turn white and numb in the cold. His wife grew concerned about the persistent sores on his knuckles. A visit to his primary doctor led to a referral to a dermatologist, who diagnosed him with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). The doctor recommended a series of intralesional corticosteroid injections directly into the thickened, painful skin (morphea) on his hands to soften the tissue, improve mobility, and promote healing of the ulcers. Robert was anxious; the idea of needles in his already sensitive hands was daunting. The procedure, done under local anesthetic, was uncomfortable but brief. Over the following weeks, with dedicated physical therapy, the tightness in his fingers lessened slightly, and the sores began to heal. Emotionally, he moved from frustration and fear about losing his livelihood to a cautious optimism. While not a cure, the treatment gave him a sense of agency and hope, allowing him to continue working with adapted tools.