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What do you suspect with cutaneous findings (edema -> sclerosis & contractures), Raynaud phenomenon, dermal thickening, CT thickening, renal crisis/HTN/pulm HTN/CHF, and GERD?

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The symptoms described are indicative of Systemic Sclerosis, a connective tissue disease that causes skin thickening and can affect internal organs. A medical evaluation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and to differentiate from similar conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The combination of cutaneous findings such as edema progressing to sclerosis and contractures, along with Raynaud phenomenon, dermal thickening, calcinosis, and internal organ involvement such as renal crisis, hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, and congestive heart failure (CHF), coupled with gastrointestinal issues like GERD, is highly suggestive of Systemic Sclerosis (also known as Scleroderma). This is a chronic connective tissue disease characterized by the overproduction of collagen leading to skin thickening and can affect internal organs. It is essential to conduct a thorough medical evaluation to confirm this diagnosis, as well as to rule out other similar conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or pseudoxanthoma elasticum, by looking for specific findings that can help differentiate between these diseases.

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