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Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
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Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
Craniofacial Scleroderma Center

Treating Pediatric Craniofacial Scleroderma

Craniofacial scleroderma can affect multiple parts of the head and neck, including:

  • Skin and soft tissue
  • Muscles
  • Bones
  • Eyes
  • Teeth
  • Brain

Doctors don't know what causes craniofacial scleroderma, but think that the immune system may play a role.

Our dedicated team of specialists provides individualized medical and surgical care for children with craniofacial scleroderma.

We ensure that each child receives the best treatment designed to improve his or her physical and mental health, aesthetic appearance, and overall development.

The right treatment plan begins with learning more about your child's condition.

To do this, our doctors may:

  • Examine your child.
  • Take 2D and 3D pictures of your child.
  • Talk with you about your child's symptoms and family health history.
  • Take a blood sample to test for certain proteins.
  • Order imaging tests, such as x-ray or MRI.
  • Take a small sample of your child's skin.

Medical Treatment for Craniofacial Scleroderma

Doctors don't know the exact causes of scleroderma. They think it is a type of autoimmune disease when the body's immune system attacks its own healthy cells.

Our doctors may suggest systemic immunomodulatory drugs to help control and treat scleroderma symptoms.

Surgical Treatment for Craniofacial Scleroderma

Children and young adults with craniofacial scleroderma sometimes need plastic surgery. These procedures help replace damaged facial tissue.

Your care team will decide if plastic surgery is right for your child. Their decision depends on your child's disease status and symptoms.

Dental Treatment for Craniofacial Scleroderma

Some children may experience tooth or jaw problems due to their craniofacial scleroderma.

The care team might recommend orthodontic appliances to help treat these problems.

Contact the Pediatric Craniofacial Scleroderma Center

To learn more or make an appointment, email scleroderma@chp.edu or call us at 412-692-5081. 

More Treatment Information