Scleroderma is a rare disease that causes skin thickening, hardening, and tightness. Scleroderma also may involve internal organs, leading to intestinal, kidney, lung and heart problems. It is a chronic disease, which means it lasts a long time.
When scleroderma only involves the skin, it is called localized scleroderma. When there is internal organ involvement, it is called generalized scleroderma or systemic sclerosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to help prevent many of the complications of scleroderma.
This information has been developed and approved by Aryeh Fischer, MD (April 2008).
