Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the overall nature of Scleroderma as a condition?

1. A genetic disorder

2. An autoimmune disorder

3. A lifestyle-related disorder

4. A nutritional deficiency

The correct answer is: An autoimmune disorder

Scleroderma is classified as an autoimmune disorder, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. It is characterized by the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues, and it can also affect internal organs. In autoimmune diseases like scleroderma, the body produces an abnormal response, leading to inflammation and damage to healthy tissues. The precise cause of scleroderma is not fully understood, but it involves a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors that trigger this inappropriate immune response. Understanding scleroderma as an autoimmune disorder distinguishes it from other conditions that might stem from genetic issues, lifestyle factors, or nutritional deficiencies, all of which do not accurately represent its pathophysiology. The hallmark of autoimmune disorders such as scleroderma is the immune system's failure to recognize self-antigens, leading to tissue damage that is not seen in genetic disorders or lifestyle-related issues.