Scleromyxedema with systemic involvement mimics rheumatic diseases

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Scleromyxedema is characterized by hyaluronic acid deposition in the dermis.
• A benign monoclonal gammopathy often accompanies scleromyxedema.
• This condition involves infiltrative skin changes.

Observation:

• Two cases of scleromyxedema with significant systemic involvement are presented.
• Both patients exhibited muscle weakness, dysphagia, and weight loss alongside skin manifestations.
• One patient also presented with sclerodactyly, telangiectasias, and Raynaud's phenomenon.

Findings:

• Scleromyxedema can manifest with severe systemic symptoms beyond dermatological changes.
• The systemic manifestations include neuromuscular and gastrointestinal issues.
• The co-occurrence of specific symptoms like sclerodactyly and Raynaud's phenomenon is noted.

Implications:

• Scleromyxedema with systemic illness requires a multidisciplinary approach for diagnosis and management.
• Recognizing systemic involvement is crucial to differentiate it from rheumatic diseases.
• Further research into the systemic complications of scleromyxedema is warranted.