Which are the causes of Scleroderma?

See some of the causes of Scleroderma according to people who have experience in Scleroderma


Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissues in the body. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of collagen, a protein that provides structure and support to various tissues and organs. The exact cause of scleroderma is still unknown, but researchers believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors play a role in its development.



Genetic Factors:


There is evidence to suggest that certain genetic factors may predispose individuals to develop scleroderma. Studies have shown that certain genes involved in the immune system and collagen production may be associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. However, having these genetic factors alone is not sufficient to cause scleroderma, and additional triggers are usually required.



Environmental Triggers:


Environmental factors are believed to play a significant role in the development of scleroderma. Exposure to certain substances or events may trigger an abnormal immune response in susceptible individuals, leading to the development of the disease. Some potential environmental triggers include:




  • Toxic Chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as solvents, silica dust, or organic solvents, has been linked to an increased risk of developing scleroderma. These chemicals may trigger an immune response and promote the production of collagen.

  • Infections: Infections, particularly viral infections, have been suggested as potential triggers for scleroderma. It is believed that certain viruses may trigger an immune response that mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, leading to the development of the disease.

  • Medications: Some medications, such as certain chemotherapy drugs or certain blood pressure medications, have been associated with an increased risk of developing scleroderma. However, the link between these medications and the disease is not yet fully understood.



Immune System Dysfunction:


Scleroderma is considered an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. In individuals with scleroderma, the immune system becomes overactive and produces excessive amounts of collagen, leading to the characteristic thickening and hardening of the skin and other tissues. The exact cause of immune system dysfunction in scleroderma is not known, but it is believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.



Hormonal Factors:


Some studies have suggested that hormonal factors may play a role in the development of scleroderma, as the disease is more common in women than in men. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, may influence the immune system and contribute to the development of the disease. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between hormones and scleroderma.



Conclusion:


Scleroderma is a complex disease with multiple potential causes. While the exact cause is still unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, immune system, and hormonal factors. Further research is needed to unravel the precise mechanisms underlying the development of scleroderma, which may ultimately lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies.


by Diseasemaps

I have been told by my doctors that there is no known cause as to why people develop Scleroderma. It is not hereditary not genetic.

3/21/17 by Peggy L 550

Nobody knows it

4/1/17 by Fashah 1150

Wish I know this answer.

4/1/17 by Milda 1000

Systemic scleroderma only occurs in patients with a genetic predisposition but also requires some type of trigger event. Known triggers are exposure to certain organic solvents and silica dust (often in industrial settings). Researchers also believe that some patients may have an infectious process as a trigger as well. Exposure to heavy metals and other toxins as well as Lyme disease have been suggested as potential triggers, but the research is not solid that these are actual triggers at this point.

4/4/17 by Choclit 1150

There really are no known causes for Scleroderma at this time. Some say a exposure to chemicals can lead to it others say a tramedic experience can also trigger it or a really bad virus.

3/30/18 by Amy 2600

I don't think anyone really knows what causes Scleroderma. There's ongoing research. Is it genetics? My late maternal aunt was believed to have had lupus and then later in her life, it was decided she didn't. She's the only one in my immediate family with anything like this disease. The environment? I live below an army airfield and as a child, I saw many planes fly over; I also played in 'chat' which is a white powdered covered rock used for grading and roads. I can't be sure. I live in Oklahoma, I am a Comanche Indian and learned there was a recent study on the Choctaw Indians who had a 'high incidence' of Scleroderma; however, I never heard the results.

11/21/18 by Juanita 1900
Translated from spanish Improve translation

it is a rheumatologic disease autoimmune...that is to say are created antucuerpos that instead of defending our body attack it basically creating the stimulation of an overproduction of collagen that creates the hardening of the skin, decreases the lumen of the capillaries with vasospasm to cold, and the hardening of internal organs, basically, digestive tract, lung and kidneys

2/27/17 by cecilia miranda. Translated
Translated from spanish Improve translation

Do not know the causes, it seems that this could be related to an infection virica. The worse the stress and the cold

3/21/17 by Amparo. Translated
Translated from spanish Improve translation

The causes are currently unknown

3/23/17 by ana h. Translated
Translated from spanish Improve translation

It is not known for sure. It is a mystery even to the medicine.

4/28/17 by Alma Olivia. Translated
Translated from spanish Improve translation

Not know , only know that it is a disease endogenous the body to attack itself

5/11/17 by Tatiana. Translated
Translated from spanish Improve translation

There is No known cause it is said that it may be an exposure to certain chemicals or stress. But the real unique thing is that your body begins to attack you

5/15/17 by Lucero. Translated
Translated from spanish Improve translation

Do not know the direct causes, but I think that they are involved in the development of the disease genetic factors, stress, worry, intolerance to certain foods like gluten and dairy, humid atmosphere and sudden temperature changes.

5/18/17 by Montse. Translated
Translated from portuguese Improve translation

Cause unknown so far. What is known is that she is a genetic, progressive, and degenerative.

9/30/17 by Carol. Translated

Top questions

What is the life expectancy of someone with Scleroderma?

Celebrities with Scleroderma

Is Scleroderma hereditary?

Is Scleroderma contagious?

Is there any natural treatment for Scleroderma?

View more questions of Scleroderma

World map of Scleroderma


Find people with Scleroderma through the map. Connect with them and share experiences. Join the Scleroderma community.

There are 932 people in the map. View Map of Scleroderma