Invisible illness/MCTD

07/13/2026

07/13/2026

07/13/2026

THESE ARE TELANGIECTASIAS
But what are Telangiectasias?

Telangiectasias are small, widened blood vessels that appear as tiny red, pink, or purple spots or lines on the skin. They are a common feature of Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma) and develop as a result of damage to the small blood vessels caused by the disease.

These spots most commonly appear on the face, lips, hands, inside the mouth, and fingertips, although they can develop anywhere on the body. They may appear individually or in clusters and often become more noticeable over time.

For many people living with scleroderma, telangiectasias are more than a cosmetic concern. Their appearance can affect self-esteem, confidence, and emotional well-being. Some individuals may feel self-conscious about visible changes to their skin, while others may experience questions or misunderstandings from those unfamiliar with the condition.

The number, size, and distribution of telangiectasias can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may develop only a few spots, while others may have numerous areas affected throughout the face, hands, and body.

Although telangiectasias themselves are usually painless, they reflect the underlying vascular abnormalities associated with scleroderma. In some cases, similar abnormal blood vessels can also occur internally, which is why regular medical follow-up is important for people living with the disease.

Managing telangiectasias can be challenging. While they cannot always be prevented, treatment options such as laser therapy may help reduce their appearance in some individuals. Ongoing research continues to improve our understanding of vascular involvement in scleroderma and explore new treatment approaches.

The photos in this collage show the many ways telangiectasias can appear. No two experiences are exactly alike, but they all tell the same story: a visible and often misunderstood manifestation of scleroderma that deserves greater awareness and understanding.

Raising awareness helps people recognize symptoms earlier, seek appropriate medical care, and better understand the physical and emotional impact experienced by those living with telangiectasias.





A special thank you to everyone who shared their telangiectasia photos with us. Your willingness to share these personal experiences helps educate others, spread awareness, and remind those living with telangiectasias that they are not alone.

07/13/2026

Lupus News: A 4 year study of anifrolumab (Saphnelo) in patients with SLE, continues to show more positive long-term results! Hematology indicators, like platelet and lymphocyte counts, hemoglobin and C3 and C4 complement levels all improved significantly ... and coincided with clinical symptom improvements seen last year.

Link: https://ow.ly/BcQz50ZksJU

07/13/2026

☀️ July is ! For many people with lupus, UV exposure is a year-round challenge. It can trigger flares, skin rashes, fatigue, and joint pain, from both sunlight and artificial indoor lighting.

Learn more and stay tuned all July for more sun safety tips: https://buff.ly/ac6zMJA

07/13/2026

June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month!

07/13/2026

June 29 is recognized worldwide as World Scleroderma Day, an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about scleroderma, a rare and complex autoimmune disease. This important day seeks to educate the public, promote early diagnosis, and increase understanding of the physical and emotional challenges experienced by individuals living with the disease. Moreover, it serves as a reminder that greater awareness can lead to better support and improved quality of life for patients and their families.

In addition, World Scleroderma Day honors the life and legacy of artist Paul Klee, who lived with systemic sclerosis. The observance also brings together patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and advocates from around the world in a shared mission to spread awareness and inspire hope. Through educational campaigns, advocacy efforts, and personal storytelling, the global scleroderma community continues to make significant strides in increasing public understanding of the disease.

World Scleroderma Day highlights the importance of unity, compassion, and continued research. By working together, we can help ensure that individuals affected by scleroderma do not face their journey alone. Therefore, let us continue to raise awareness, support scientific advancements, and advocate for a future with better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

07/13/2026

Do you work with people living with ? Join us July 29 for a free webinar covering how to engage with the lupus community and use our self-management guides in your day-to-day work.

Built for community health workers, patient navigators, and anyone working directly with patients. Save your spot: https://buff.ly/Apn6Vmx

07/13/2026

Today is World Scleroderma Day. 💙

Our community stands strong, united by hope and determination.

We honor the courage of everyone living with scleroderma and the loved ones who support them.

Your voices, stories, and acts of kindness are the heart of our mission.

Together, we can raise awareness, advocate for earlier diagnosis, and champion better treatments.

Let’s shine a light on scleroderma and celebrate the incredible individuals who inspire us every day!

07/13/2026

We're looking for volunteers to help make our 2026 Walk to End Lupus Now events a success!

If you can help with setup, assist during the event, stay for teardown, or volunteer all morning, we'd love to have you on our team. Volunteers will receive a free event T-shirt as a thank you for their support.

Interested? Sign up to volunteer on the Walk to End Lupus Now registration page. We can't do it without you! 💜