Which one of the following is a generalized disorder of connective tissue characterized by hardening and thickening of skin, blood vessels, skeletal muscles, and internal organs?

Correct option is B

Ans. (b) Sol. Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is a generalized connective tissue disorder characterized by the hardening and thickening of the skin, blood vessels, skeletal muscles, and internal organs. This condition affects various body systems and can lead to significant complications.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – Incorrect. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs, but it does not primarily cause hardening and thickening of tissues.
· (b) Systemic Sclerosis – Correct. Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) is a chronic autoimmune disease that involves the thickening and hardening of connective tissue, including the skin and internal organs.
· (c) Gout – Incorrect. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints, not by the hardening of connective tissue.
· (d) Psoriasis – Incorrect. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to scaling and inflammation but not the hardening or thickening of connective tissue.