Scleroderma (also known as systemic sclerosis or SSc) is an autoimmune disorder. The term “autoimmune” is characterized by inflammation or other issues of the body’s organs caused by the immune system. In particular for those living with scleroderma, thickening and tightening of the skin on the fingers and other body parts are common with the condition. It can also affect internal organs including the kidneys, esophagus, and lungs.
When the lungs are affected in a person diagnosed with scleroderma leading to scar tissue (also known as fibrosis) and/or inflammation within the walls of the air sacs, it is known as scleroderma-associated interstitial lung disease, or SSc-ILD.
Lung disease associated with scleroderma is not common. However, if the lungs are affected, it often leads to either interstitial lung disease (ILD) or a condition known as pulmonary hypertension.
During the early stages of SSC-ILD, one might experience no respiratory symptoms or just a bothersome cough. As the condition progresses, common symptoms include:
Lederer, D. J. Scleroderma-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease (SSc-ILD). Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 0823. 1-2.