What Is Scleroderma?

Scleroderma is a rare disease that affects the body’s connective tissue. Connective tissues support the skin and internal organs. The disease can cause skin, blood vessels, or other tissues to become hard or thick. It can also lead to swelling or pain in your muscles and joints.

The exact cause of scleroderma is unknown. It’s thought to be an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s disease-fighting system attacks its own cells and tissues. In scleroderma, the damage triggers connective tissue cells to make too much of a protein called collagen. Excess collagen in your skin and other tissues can cause the areas to harden and tighten.

There are two main types of scleroderma: localized and systemic. Localized scleroderma usually affects only the skin and the structures underneath it. Systemic scleroderma affects many systems in the body. This includes the skin, tissues under it, blood vessels, and major organs like the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

It can be difficult for doctors to diagnose scleroderma because the symptoms can vary. Treatment depends on your symptoms and which tissues and organs are affected. People with scleroderma often see a rheumatologist for treatment. But different types of doctors may be involved, depending on which organs are affected. Learn more about scleroderma.