Systemic sclerosis

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is avery heterogeneous, chronic, rare, but socioeconomically important disease with asevere disease course and severe impairment of the quality of life of affected patients. Overview of the current state of research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy of SSc. A literature search was performed. The pathogenesis of SSc is not fully understood. ACR/EULAR criteria allow the diagnosis of early forms of SSc. Classification into limited cutaneous SSc and diffuse cutaneous SSc is of prognostic and therapeutic relevance. New organ-specific treatment options for SSc have led to improved quality of life and prognosis.