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Musculoskeletal manifestations of scleroderma

Dr Jeremy Jones and Dr Saqba Farooq et al.

Musculoskeletal manifestations of scleroderma are common and variable.

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

Radiographic features

Plain film

Imaging findings demonstrate bone and soft tissue changes 2,3,4. The hands are the most common site of involvement.

Bone changes
  • acro-osteolysis (resorption of the distal phalanges)
  • periarticular osteoporosis
  • joint space narrowing
  • erosions
Soft tissue changes
  • subcutaneous and periarticular calcification
  • atrophy especially at tips of fingers
  • flexion contractures
Other less common documented musculoskeletal findings
  • rib resorption, mandibular angle resorption, radius and ulna resorption
  • terminal phalangeal sclerosis

Differential diagnosis

See also

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