What is the cause of Systemic Sclerosis?
Unknown.
The etiology of Systemic Sclerosis may involve a complex interplay among a genetically-susceptible host, gender related factors, and external triggers.
Pathophysiological mechanisms that may play a role in disease development include endothelial disruption, platelet activation, fibroblast proliferation, fetal michrochimerism, and increased transforming growth factor-β.
Some environmental factors, particularly silica dust, have been associated with an increased risk of Systemic Sclerosis.
