The Potential Effects of Diffuse Scleroderma in a Patient With Cervical Kyphosis

Scleroderma is a complex autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the connective tissue. Its key pathogenesis comprises vascular abnormalities, autoimmunity, and tissue fibrosis. While the exact etiology of the disease is unclear, patients may exhibit a wide array of symptoms. Scleroderma can rarely induce systemic effects that alter normal cervical spine anatomy. The effects on the cervical spine may be mediated through autoimmune phenomena or dystrophic calcinosis along the vertebral column. We discuss a rare case involving a 60-year-old female with a four-month history of scleroderma, who presented with cervical kyphosis, neck pain, impaired ambulation, dysphagia, edema, and reduced range of motion.