ABSTRACT
Systemic sclerosis (SSc), or scleroderma, is a unique collagen vascular disorder characterized by variable degree of dermal fibrosis. SSc is ubiquitous affecting people of any race, though gender and geographical location-wise variations have been observed. A higher risk of occurrence of SSc and other collagen vascular disorders among silicone breast implant users has not been evidenced. Interstitial lung disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension have taken the forefront, causing great morbidity and mortality to the patients suffering from SSc. The reason for an apparent increase in the incidence of SSc in recent epidemiological studies may be manifold; newer, more sensitive and specific diagnostic criteria, improved diagnostic techniques, and better understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease. An incidence rate of 7.2% and a prevalence of 38%–53% has been reported from a Japanese study.
