What are the main types of scleroderma?

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There are two main types of scleroderma: systemic scleroderma, which can be life-threatening, and localized scleroderma, which mainly affects the skin and nearby tissues. Systemic scleroderma appears in two main forms: diffuse and limited. The diffuse type (dcSSc) progresses rapidly, causing widespread skin thickening and early involvement of internal organs such as the lungs, heart, and kidneys. The limited form (lcSSc), also known as CREST syndrome, is more common and develops gradually, mainly affecting the hands, forearms, and face.