title: [Systemic sclerosis: a multisystem disease].
abstract: Systemic sclerosis is a rare, systemic autoimmune disease, characterized by inflammation, vasculopathy and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The disease is associated with a significantly increased morbidity and mortality, and can be rapidly progressive. Interstitial lung disease, renal hypertensive crisis, cardiac involvement and pulmonary arterial hypertension are life-threatening complications. Early treatment with immunosuppressive drugs can prevent progression and decrease morbidity and mortality.
authors: Radboudumc, afd. Reumatische ziekten, Nijmegen.
authors: Marvin A H
authors: MA
authors: Berrevoets
authors: Joekie
authors: J
authors: Markhorst
authors: Inger  L
authors: I
authors: Meek
authors: Annelies E
authors: AE
authors: van Ede
authors: Madelon C
authors: MC
authors: Vonk
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D018450:Disease Progression; D005260:Female; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018908:Muscle Weakness / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D011928:Raynaud Disease / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D012595:Scleroderma, Systemic / Q000150:complications*