Is there a cure for scleroderma?

There is currently no cure for scleroderma, but the condition can be managed well for many people through a combination of treatments including medications, physical therapy, surgery and self-management techniques.

With the right treatment, most people are now able to live long and productive lives with scleroderma. Find out more about managing scleroderma here.

The impact that scleroderma has on everyday life varies enormously from person to person. For many people, it can be very mild and easy to live with. For others, it can cause serious physical disability and become life-threatening. This depends a lot on which parts of the body are affected, and how. Read more about localised scleroderma and systemic sclerosis here.

At SRUK we support the latest research into developing new treatments and ultimately finding a cure for scleroderma.

Who is at risk of scleroderma?

Scleroderma is four-times more common in females than males. During the childbearing years, this rises even higher, to ten women for every one man.

It usually begins between the ages of 25 and 55 and in most cases, it is preceded by Raynaud's.

Scleroderma occasionally occurs in children and the elderly, but fortunately most types of childhood scleroderma are localised and only involve the skin. More information on localised scleroderma in children can be found here.

Although more than 95% of patients with scleroderma have Raynaud's, the chances of someone with Raynaud's developing scleroderma are very small - it is less than 2% in females and 6% in males.

The condition does not appear to be related to race, ethnicity or where you live.

I have just been diagnosed with scleroderma, what should I do next?

A diagnosis of a rare disease like scleroderma can be frightening and isolating. But it doesn't have to be. At SRUK, we strive to give support and advice to everyone who is diagnosed with the condition, and their family.

Find out more on our page for people who are newly diagnosed, or speak to someone today on our helpline by calling 0800 311 2756.