What is a Scleroderma? Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and fibrosis (thickening) of the skin and other body tissues. When the immune system misunderstands tissues as wounded, inflammation occurs, and the body produces too much collagen, resulting in scleroderma. Too much collagen in your skin and other tissues leads to tight, rigid…
What is an Ankylosing Spondylitis? Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the spine, characterized by inflammation of the spinal joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and potentially spinal fusion. It falls under the category of spondyloarthritis, a group of rheumatic diseases that share common clinical features. AS typically begins in the sacroiliac…
What is a Rheumatoid Arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of the synovial joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Unlike osteoarthritis, which primarily affects cartilage, rheumatoid arthritis targets the lining of the joints, known as the synovium, causing damage and eventually resulting in joint deformity and disability. Early…
