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thickening/hardening of the skin

I was just wondering if anyone knows what can cause the skin to get thickened and hardened and to appear shiny? This condition has almost completely engulfed one of my breasts and now it's appearing on my facial area. None of the doctors I've been to have been able to help me yet, and I'm getting really worried.
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Avatar universal
Hey if none of the doctors were worried, I suggest you get checked out for cyberchondria
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Sounds like Scleroderma Morphea to me.  I've had it for about three years now.  See a Dermatologist for a "punch" biopsy.  I have found that UVA "B" therapy has greatly reduced these patches and that (along with Devonex cream) will soften the patches (aka plaques).  Morphea is autoimmune.  It's one of those "mystery" diseases that can be minor (asthetic) or serious (systemic).  Get it checked out.
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Avatar universal
The last MRI that was done was many years ago. My breast doctor decided that she didn't see a need for an MRI and instead went directly to a surgical biopsy. As far as I know I don't have any Kidney problems. I've done a lot of research about NSF and numerous other diseases/disorders. The only thing I've found so far that resembles it most is something called Morphea. Unfortunately, Morphea is an autoimmune disease, and the Rheumatologist says that I don't have an autoimmune problem. Inflammatory Breast Cancer has been ruled out, but the symptoms resemble that disease too. Thanks.
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Yes, I've been tested for Scleroderma and several other autoimmune diseases. All of the tests came back within normal range. I've had two seperate biopsies done and they weren't able to find much, though they did rule out breast cancer. Thanks.
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Avatar universal
Hello Chrissy:  When was the last time you had an MRI with contrast and do you have kidney problems.  Individuals who have kidney problems can have a side effect similar to what you are describing and not to many doctors know about it.  It is called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF).  When the kidneys cannot push the contrast through, it can cause problems.  You can read about it on the internet.  
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174515 tn?1191707269
have you had any testing for scleroderma?
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