Systemic sclerosis. Case report and review of literature

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a heterogeneous rheumatic disease within the scleroderma spectrum of disorders. The systemic forms of scleroderma are most appropriately designated systemic sclerosis. Typical features of the disease include thickening of the skin (scleroderma) and damage to other organs, caused by excessive accumulation of collagen. SSc also affects oral and perioral tissues, the most common clinical manifestations being facial skin and tongue rigidity. The aim of this article is to describe, through presentation of a case report, oral manifestations of SSc and their consequences on mouth aperture and salivary function, and, consequently, on dental health care. Classification, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and treatment options are discussed, and the relevant literature is reviewed.