Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

Which of the following conditions is characterized by skin changes and alterations in internal organs?

1. Fibromyalgia

2. Rheumatoid arthritis

3. Systemic sclerosis

4. Osteoarthritis

The correct answer is: Systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis, commonly known as scleroderma, is characterized by skin changes and alterations in internal organs. This autoimmune disorder leads to the hardening and tightening of the skin, which results from excess collagen deposition. Additionally, systemic sclerosis can affect various internal organs including the lungs, kidneys, heart, and gastrointestinal system. These alterations can lead to serious complications, such as pulmonary fibrosis, renal impairment, and gastrointestinal dysmotility, all of which underscore the systemic nature of the disease. The hallmark features of systemic sclerosis, including skin thickening and involvement of other organ systems, distinguish it from other conditions. In contrast, fibromyalgia is primarily associated with widespread musculoskeletal pain and does not typically involve significant skin changes or internal organ alterations. Rheumatoid arthritis mainly affects the joints and may have systemic effects, but the hallmark of the disease is joint inflammation rather than skin and internal organ involvement. Osteoarthritis focuses mostly on the wear and tear of joints without the systemic effects seen in systemic sclerosis. Therefore, the emphasis on both skin and internal organ changes makes systemic sclerosis the correct answer.