Alicia Caballero, a 49-year-old resident of San Lorenzo, has spent two years bedridden while battling progressive systemic sclerosis, an uncommon autoimmune condition that hardens the skin and attacks internal organs. Her family is currently struggling to cover the high costs of her ongoing medical treatments, surgeries, and essential supplies.
San Lorenzo Bedridden Patient Fights Systemic Sclerosis
Understanding the Autoimmune Disease
Progressive systemic sclerosis, also recognized as systemic sclerosis or scleroderma, causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy tissues mistakenly, according to Medicover. This destructive process triggers widespread inflammation, thickening, and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. Medical specialists categorize the condition into types such as limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis, which targets the hands, face, and forearms, and diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, which involves widespread skin thickening across the trunk and limbs.
Severe Physical and Financial Toll
For Caballero, the disease has progressed to severe physical limitations after more than 11 years of living with the diagnosis. She remains confined to her bed, relying on diapers and experiencing intense, debilitating pain from skin abrasions and open wounds that carry a high risk of infection.
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“For two years I’ve taken to the bed, I don’t move anymore, I don’t walk anymore, I use a diaper,” Caballero said. “It’s a very difficult situation because I have to enter surgery, and there are days when the painkillers no longer do anything to me and make me scream.”
In addition to managing severe pain and skin deterioration, Caballero requires medical studies, surgeries, and medication. Financial strain has intensified because one of her daughters is currently unemployed, leaving the family unable to shoulder the expenses independently.
Clinical Manifestations and Treatment
Common clinical manifestations of systemic sclerosis include joint pain, fatigue, swallowing difficulties known as dysphagia, and the phenomenon of Raynaud, where fingers and toes turn pale or blue in response to cold temperatures or stress. While researchers note that the exact root cause is not fully understood, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system triggers.
Public Appeal for Daily Care
The family has appealed to the public for donations of diapers and basic provisions to help manage Caballero’s daily care. Anyone wishing to assist can contact her daughter, Tatiana González, at the phone number (0983) 180-479.
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