Utah Esthetics Written State Practice Exam

What is scleroderm?

1. A skin infection

2. An auto-immune disease

3. A type of dermatitis

4. A fungal skin condition

The correct answer is: An auto-immune disease

Scleroderma is classified as an autoimmune disease, which is characterized by the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. In autoimmune diseases, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This condition can affect not just the skin but also internal organs, and it leads to symptoms such as skin thickening, changes in skin color, and potentially serious complications involving the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive system. Understanding scleroderma in this context helps in recognizing the systemic nature of the disease, as it is not merely a local skin issue but a condition that may have widespread effects on the body. This distinguishes it from infections, dermatitis, or fungal conditions, which typically have more localized effects and do not involve an autoimmune response.