What disease is characterized by collagen deposition in the skin?

Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is characterized by collagen deposition in the skin and other organs. This condition leads to abnormal growth and accumulation of collagen, which can result in skin thickening and tightening, often manifesting as a shiny, taut appearance.

The underlying pathophysiology involves an autoimmune reaction leading to inflammation and a subsequent increase in collagen production. Scleroderma can also affect internal organs, causing additional fibrotic changes and complications in areas such as the lungs, heart, and kidneys.

Given the nature of this disease, understanding its key feature—collagen deposition—is essential for differentiating it from other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout, which do not primarily involve this specific mechanism of collagen buildup in the skin.