Scleroderma Treatment in Tampa, FL | Expert Rheumatology Care
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease that causes hardening of the skin and can affect internal organs. At Bolad Arthritis & Rheumatology Clinic, our board certified rheumatologist provides comprehensive scleroderma care, from early diagnosis to organ protection. New patients are typically seen within 1 week at our Tampa clinic.
Understanding Scleroderma
Scleroderma, also called systemic sclerosis, occurs when the immune system triggers excess collagen production, causing skin thickening and, in some patients, scarring of internal organs such as the lungs, kidneys, heart, and digestive tract. There are two main forms: limited scleroderma, which mostly affects the skin of the hands, arms, and face, and diffuse scleroderma, which spreads more widely and carries a higher risk of organ involvement.
Because scleroderma varies so much from patient to patient, treatment must be tailored to which organs are involved. That is exactly what specialist rheumatology care provides.
Scleroderma Symptoms: Early Warning Signs
Common early signs of scleroderma include:
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Raynaud's phenomenon: fingers turning white or blue in the cold
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Puffy or swollen fingers, especially in the morning
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Skin that feels tight, shiny, or hard, usually starting on the fingers and hands
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Heartburn or difficulty swallowing
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Small red spots on the face and hands (telangiectasia)
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Fatigue and joint pain
Raynaud's phenomenon plus swollen fingers and abnormal antibodies is a pattern that deserves urgent rheumatology evaluation, because early treatment can prevent organ damage.
How Scleroderma Is Diagnosed
Blood Tests
Nearly all scleroderma patients have a positive ANA. Specific antibodies such as anticentromere and anti Scl 70 help identify the type of scleroderma and predict which organs need closest monitoring.
Imaging and Organ Testing
Baseline lung function testing, chest imaging, and echocardiography check for lung and heart involvement, which can develop silently. Nailfold capillaroscopy examines the small blood vessels at the fingertips for changes typical of scleroderma.
Physical Examination
We assess the extent of skin thickening using standardized scoring, examine joints and tendons, and evaluate circulation in the hands.
Scleroderma Treatment Options
Medications for Raynaud's and Circulation
Calcium channel blockers and other vasodilators improve blood flow to the fingers and help prevent fingertip ulcers.
Immunosuppressive Medications
Mycophenolate and methotrexate reduce immune activity, soften skin involvement, and treat early lung inflammation.
Treatments for Organ Involvement
Lung fibrosis may be treated with antifibrotic medications or biologic therapy such as tocilizumab. Reflux and swallowing symptoms are managed with acid suppressing medication and dietary strategies. Kidney involvement is monitored closely so it can be treated immediately if it develops.
Infusion Therapy
When biologic or infusion based treatment is appropriate, we provide it in office and handle insurance authorization to minimize delays.
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Hand therapy preserves grip and flexibility, and stretching programs help maintain skin and joint mobility.
Scleroderma Treatment in Tampa: Our Approach
Your first visit includes a complete history, skin and joint examination, antibody testing, and baseline organ screening. Because scleroderma can progress quietly, our approach emphasizes scheduled monitoring of the lungs, heart, and kidneys, so problems are caught and treated at the earliest possible stage.
Management of Scleroderma: Beyond Medications
Lifestyle Modifications
Keeping the hands warm, stopping smoking, elevating the head of the bed for reflux, and gentle daily stretching all make a measurable difference.
Monitoring and Follow Up
We repeat lung function tests and echocardiograms at regular intervals based on your risk profile, and track skin scores over time.
Patient Education
Knowing the warning signs of complications, such as new shortness of breath or rising blood pressure, helps you act quickly.
Scleroderma Doctor in Tampa
Dr. Waleed Bolad is a board certified rheumatologist experienced in systemic sclerosis and related connective tissue diseases. He sees scleroderma patients at our Tampa clinic at 4728 N Habana Ave #303 and at our Orlando Major Boulevard location.
Can Scleroderma Be Cured?
There is no cure for scleroderma yet, but treatment has improved dramatically. Modern therapy can soften skin involvement, protect the lungs and kidneys, control symptoms, and preserve quality of life. Patients diagnosed and treated early have significantly better long term outcomes.
Early Signs of Scleroderma and the Importance of Early Treatment
New Raynaud's phenomenon in adulthood, puffy fingers, and positive scleroderma antibodies are the earliest signals. The first three years of diffuse scleroderma are when organ involvement is most likely to develop, which makes early specialist care the single most important factor in protecting long term health.
Scleroderma Specialist Services at Bolad Clinic
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Complete antibody based diagnosis and disease subtyping
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Baseline and ongoing organ screening: lungs, heart, kidneys
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In office infusion therapy with insurance authorization handled
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Coordination with pulmonology, cardiology, and gastroenterology when needed
Why Choose Bolad Clinic for Scleroderma Treatment in Tampa?
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Board certified rheumatologist trained at top programs
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New patients seen within 1 week
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Rated 4.9 stars on Google
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Structured organ monitoring program for scleroderma patients
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Medicare and most major insurance plans accepted, no referral needed for most plans
Call (813) 343-0400 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scleroderma
Is scleroderma the same as morphea?
No. Morphea is localized scleroderma limited to patches of skin and usually does not affect internal organs. Systemic sclerosis can involve the skin and internal organs, and is the form managed by a rheumatologist.
Does everyone with Raynaud's develop scleroderma?
No. Most people with Raynaud's never develop an autoimmune disease. However, Raynaud's that starts in adulthood or comes with swollen fingers or abnormal antibodies should be evaluated by a rheumatologist.
How fast does scleroderma progress?
It varies widely. Limited scleroderma often progresses slowly over years, while diffuse scleroderma can change more quickly in the first few years. Regular monitoring catches changes early.
Can scleroderma affect my lungs?
Yes, lung involvement is one of the most important complications, which is why we perform breathing tests and imaging at diagnosis and at scheduled intervals afterward, even if you feel well.
How often will I need rheumatology appointments?
Most patients are seen every 3 to 6 months once stable, with organ screening tests scheduled around those visits. New or changing symptoms always warrant an earlier visit.