Complications and Treatments

Scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, is a complex disease that can progress in very variable ways in individual patients. Being better informed about scleroderma and its many potential complications can help you be a more effective advocate in managing your disease and remaining as healthy as possible.

How Scleroderma Can Affect the Body

One way to break down scleroderma complications is by body systems and organs commonly affected, though it’s worth remembering that all body systems are interconnected.

Scleroderma Skin Complications and Treatments

Along with the signature skin fibrosis (hardening) that characterizes scleroderma, there are other scleroderma complications related to the skin that may occur, such as calcinosis, telangiectasias, and skin ulcers.

Scleroderma Cardiovascular Complications and Treatments

Scleroderma can affect the heart and blood vessels, potentially leading to complications such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), arrhythmias, and heart muscle involvement that may require ongoing monitoring and treatment.

Scleroderma Lung Complications and Treatments

One of the main characteristics of scleroderma is the overproduction of collagen. Since certain parts of the lungs are made up of collagen, which can act like scar tissue in the lungs, this can make people with scleroderma vulnerable to serious breathing and lung complications.

Scleroderma Gastrointestinal System Complications and Treatments

Most people living with scleroderma have mild to severe gastrointestinal problems. Gastrointestinal symptoms in scleroderma can appear in many forms and involve different levels of risk, from simple indigestion to esophageal blockage.

Scleroderma Kidney Complications and Treatments

Kidney complications in scleroderma are most serious when they lead to scleroderma renal crisis (SRC), a rare but life-threatening complication. SRC is most common in people with diffuse systemic sclerosis, especially during the first few years after diagnosis.

Scleroderma Joint Complications and Treatments

Joint symptoms are common in scleroderma and may affect both small and large joints. These complications can make everyday activities—such as dressing, writing, cooking, or walking—more difficult over time.

Watch Highlights from the 2026 SRF Scleroderma Patient Forum

Looking to go deeper into understanding scleroderma? Check out recordings from our annual free online event for people living with scleroderma and those who care about them.

New Horizons in the Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis (2026)

Look ahead at emerging scleroderma treatments, including promising T-cell therapies and other advances shaping the future of care.

Scleroderma 201: Beyond the Basics (2026)

Go beyond the basics of scleroderma and learn how long-term care, monitoring, and treatment strategies can evolve over time.

Scleroderma 101: Understanding Your Diagnosis (2026)

Newly diagnosed with scleroderma? Learn what your diagnosis means, which tests to expect, and what to ask your care team.

More Resources

Resources for Newly Diagnosed

There is a lot to understand about scleroderma. Here are some tools to help you as you begin managing this complicated disease.

Newly Diagnosed

Treatment Centers

Looking for treatment options near you? Check out our directory of U.S. treatment centers that are prepared to handle your needs while living with scleroderma.

Webinar Series

The Scleroderma Research Foundation hosts free online webinars providing information about scleroderma, disease management, and latest research advances.