scleroses

Scleroses, the plural of sclerosis, refers to a range of pathological processes in which tissue becomes abnormally hard or stiff. These changes may result from fibrosis, scar formation, calcification, or other remodeling of the extracellular matrix, and they can affect nearly any organ. Sclerotic transformations are often the consequence of chronic injury, persistent inflammation, ischemia, aging, or autoimmune reactions.

Common contexts include systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), an autoimmune disorder characterized by widespread fibrosis of the skin and internal organs, vasculopathy, and immune activation. Arteriosclerosis denotes general hardening and loss of elasticity of arterial walls, which can contribute to reduced blood flow and increased cardiovascular risk. Atherosclerosis, a specific form, involves lipid-rich plaques within arteries. In the central nervous system, multiple sclerosis features demyelinating lesions that become sclerotic over time. Sclerosis can also describe fibrotic changes in organs such as the liver (cirrhosis) or the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis), where tissue becomes progressively scarred and function is impaired.

Pathophysiology typically involves injury or inflammation that activates fibroblasts and promotes excess collagen and other extracellular matrix components, leading to stiff, nonfunctional tissue. The clinical manifestations depend on the organ affected and may range from functional impairment to organ failure. Diagnosis is disease-specific, often combining clinical features, imaging, laboratory tests, and sometimes biopsy. Treatment likewise varies by condition and aims to slow progression, manage symptoms, and preserve function—for example, immunosuppressive or antifibrotic therapies in autoimmune forms, vascular management in arteriosclerotic disease, and supportive care.

Etymology derives from the Greek skleros, meaning hard.