Scleroderma or systemic sclerosis, is a chronic connective tissue condition. It is generally classified as one of the autoimmune rheumatic conditions. One of the common symptoms is the thickening or hardening of the skin. It comes from the Greek: sclero = hard, derma = skin. The term systemic sclerosis tells us more about the condition it is a systemic condition that may affect many parts of the body sclerosis is the medical term for the thickening or hardening of the tissues, which is a major part of this condition. Scleroderma can cause serious damage to the lungs, heart, kidneys, oesophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. As such, it is often called a multi-system condition. It can be life-threatening. We need your help as we receive no government funding and rely on the generosity of donors and supporters.