Historical perspective of scleroderma

Scleroderma, also called systemic sclerosis, was first described in the eighteenth century but was undoubtedly present long before. One limitation was the diversity of clinical features and lack of appreciation of the links between internal organs and skin disease. Key figures in history are discussed including those in the recent era that underpin progress in diagnosis, classification and treatment. Interest in the disease and the volume of published research have grown enormously and the arrival of evidence-based treatment recommendations and emerging therapies and ongoing trials are testament to the progress that has been made.