What Is Systemic Scleroderma?
5. What Causes Systemic Scleroderma?
The underlying cause of systemic scleroderma is currently unknown. However, scientists speculate that it is the result of a combination of factors, including immune system problems, environmental triggers and genetics.
What researchers do understand is that the disease is a result of the accumulation and overproduction of collagen, which is a fibrous protein that makes up the connective tissue in the body. However, there are only theories as to why collagen is produced at such a rate, and the leading theory is that it is a result of an overactive and overprotective immune system.
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