What Are The Symptoms Of Hutchinson-Gilford Syndrome?

Skin Issues Similar To Scleroderma

Along with the characteristic thinning and wrinkling that occurs in the skin of children affected by Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome, patients often develop skin issues similar to scleroderma. The skin often becomes thick, stiff, dry, shiny, and taut in some regions, but it stays wrinkled and lax in other areas. This skin thickening in individuals who have Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome commonly occurs on the buttocks, thighs, and lower abdominal region. These areas of skin become stiff and thick due to an abnormal distribution of collagen in the skin cells. Some areas may not have enough collagen, while there is too much collagen in others. This collagen accumulation occurs in some spots because of an interaction that takes place between certain types of immune system cells and fibroblasts. Children who have Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome also commonly exhibit abnormal and progressive hyperpigmentation in regions of the skin exposed to the sun. While these skin issues are similar to scleroderma, they are not caused by the same disease.