M34.2: Systemic sclerosis induced by drugs and chemicals
With systemic scleroderma, the body produces too many connective tissue proteins. The connective tissue thickens and hardens as a result. This is probably caused by the body’s immune system. There is connective tissue all over the body. There is connective tissue beneath the skin and around muscles and organs, for example. Muscles and organs have connective tissue, too. The disorder can affect certain parts of the body or the body as a whole.
Systemic sclerosis can involve changes to the skin and joint problems. The skin may be unusually hard. It may be harder to move your joints, or movements may be painful. This disorder can also affect internal organs. The connective tissue in your lungs or your oesophagus might have thickened, for example. The blood vessels in your fingers might also contract more than usual in the cold. So the fingers turn white or blue.
The condition may have appeared after you took particular medication. It may be that you have come into contact with chemical substances.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.