CREST Syndrome: A Mild Variant of Systemic Sclerosis Explained

CREST Syndrome: A Mild Variant of Systemic Sclerosis Explained

Question. Write a short note on CREST syndrome.

Answer. It is considered to be a mild variant of systemic sclerosis.

“Understanding the role of CREST syndrome in systemic sclerosis: Q&A explained”

The term CREST is an acronym for:

C­ Calcinosis Cutis
R- Raynaud’s phenomenon
E­ Esophageal dysfunction
S­ Sclerodactyly
T­ Telangiectasia.

“Importance of studying CREST syndrome for better diagnostic outcomes: Questions explained”

Clinical Features Of CREST

• Female predilection is present.
• It most commonly occurs during sixth or seventh decades of life.
• Signs of the disease develop from months to years.
• Calcinosis cutis: It is characterized by deposition of calcium beneath the skin in form of nodules which are 0.5 to 2 cm in size and are movable, multiple and are non­tender.

“Common challenges in diagnosing CREST syndrome effectively: FAQs provided”

• Raynaud’s phenomenon: It is seen when patient’s hand or feet are exposed to cold.
  Characteristic clinical sign is blanching of digits which appear whitish in color because of vasospasm.
  After few minutes extremity become blue in color because of venous stasis.
  As area get warm it gives dusky­red hue which indicates of return of hyperemic blood flow.
  With all this presence of throbbing pain is there.
• Esophageal dysfunction: It is present because of deposition of abnormal collagen in esophageal submucosa.
• Sclerodactyly: In this fingers get stiff skin becomes smooth and shiny.
• Flexure of fingers occurs resulting in claw deformity.
• Telangiectasia: In this bleeding from superficial dilated vessels is seen.