Head and Neck Manifestations of Scleroderma

Abstract

— Scleroderma has rarely been discussed in the otolaryngologic literature. A review of the records of 71 scleroderma patients admitted to UCLA Hospital during the past five years indicates that head and neck manifestations are common, occurring in 80% of these patients. The initial symptoms in 30% among them were related to the head and neck. It is the purpose of this paper to familiarize otolaryngologists with scleroderma. Although it has not been emphasized in the past, this is a disease whose early symptoms and findings may require otolaryngologic consultation and whose later course is characterized by head and neck symptoms and findings in the overwhelming majority of patients.