The cause of scleroderma is unknown, but it cannot be transmitted from person to person. Several factors that may increase a person's risk of getting scleroderma include:
Abnormal immune or inflammatory activity: In scleroderma, the immune system is thought to stimulate cells called fibroblasts so they produce too much collagen. People who already have rheumatic or autoimmune disorders are at increased risk due to previous abnormal autoimmune activity.
Genetic makeup: Although genes seem to put certain people at risk for scleroderma and play a role in its course, the disease is not passed from parent to child like some genetic diseases. Research indicates that there is a susceptibility gene, which raises the likelihood of getting scleroderma, but by itself does not cause the disease. [3]
Environmental triggers: Research suggests that exposure to some environmental factors may trigger scleroderma-like disease in people who are genetically predisposed to it. Suspected triggers include viral infections, certain adhesive and coating materials, and organic solvents such as vinyl chloride or trichloroethylene. But no environmental agent has been shown to cause scleroderma. In the past, some people believed that silicone breast implants might have been a factor in developing connective tissue diseases such as scleroderma. But several studies have not shown evidence of a connection.
Hormones: Women develop scleroderma more often than men. Scientists suspect that hormonal differences between women and men play a part in the disease. However, the role of estrogen or other female hormones has not been proven.