Crst syndrome

CRST syndrome (calcification-Raynaud-sclerodactyly-telangiectasia) is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by a combination of certain signs and symptoms. The disease occurs as a result of metabolic disorders and the structure of collagen in connective tissue.

The main symptom of CRST syndrome is calcification - the formation of pathological calcifications in soft tissues and bones. With this disease, the normal metabolism of calcium in the body is disrupted and it accumulates in the tissues, which leads to their hardening (sclerosation). Calcifications can appear in various parts of the body, including fingers, feet, face, neck, heart and other organs.

Another important symptom of CRST syndrome is Raynaud's syndrome - dysfunction of small vessels of the extremities. This manifests itself as temporary numbness, paresthesia (pins and needles sensation) or pain in the fingers and toes, as well as a feeling of cold or heat in the affected areas of the body. Raynaud's syndrome can occur in several cases, such as hypertension, arrhythmia, or stress.

Sclerodactyly is another characteristic sign of the disease, which manifests itself in a change in the appearance of the fingers. As a result of tissue hardening, deformations of the fingers appear, their shortening, thickening and curvature. This deformity persists for life and cannot be treated with surgery.

Telangiectation is the formation of superficial blood vessels that look like spider veins. These vascular changes are mainly localized to the face and neck, but can be found on other parts of the body. The presence of telangiectesia is also a sign of CRST.

Various methods are used to treat CRST, such as medications, physical therapy, surgery, and immunosuppressive therapy. However, the success of treatment depends on the individual characteristics of each patient. In most cases, stabilizing blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels help. Surgical intervention is used in especially severe cases to eliminate the consequences of the pathological process.

CRST syndrome is a disease of an autoimmune nature, characterized by combined damage to the skin, vascular wall, joints and internal organs. The basis of the disease is a violation of collagen synthesis. The name comes from the first letters in Latin of the Latin phrase: C - calcinosis, R - Raynaud, S - sclerodactylia, T - teleangectasia.

The causes of the disease are still unknown. CRST syndrome was first described in men in 1965. Initially, it was believed that only men were affected. However, over time it became clear that the disease also occurs in women. In children, the appearance of this syndrome is a very rare exception. The disease primarily affects women. But at the same time, most often it manifests itself by the age of 50–60, in men it occurs at a later age - by 80. In addition, this syndrome appears somewhat less frequently in representatives of northern peoples. Among white patients, it occurs approximately