A patient with systemic sclerosis shows signs of esophageal dysmotility. Which of the following is also a common association?

Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is a complex autoimmune condition characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. One of the hallmark features of this disease is esophageal dysmotility, which can lead to symptoms such as gastroesophageal reflux and difficulty swallowing due to impaired peristalsis.

Raynaud phenomenon is a common association with systemic sclerosis and is characterized by episodic vasospastic attacks that cause discoloration and discomfort in the fingers and toes in response to cold or stress. The occurrence of Raynaud phenomenon in patients with systemic sclerosis is significant as it often presents before other systemic manifestations of the disease.

Skin rash can indeed occur in patients with systemic sclerosis, particularly in sclerodactyly or diffuse cutaneous forms, but it is not universally present in all cases. Similarly, pulmonary fibrosis is another critical complication that develops in a significant number of patients, but it is more prevalent in the later stages of the disease. Joint pain is also a common symptom in various autoimmune conditions, including systemic sclerosis, but it is less specific to this disease compared to Raynaud phenomenon.

The association of Raynaud's with esophageal dysmotility highlights the systemic involvement of small blood vessels and fibrotic changes that characterize s