Does immunodeficiency cause scleroderma?
On One Hand: Immunodeficiency Does Not Cause SclerodermaImmunodeficiency (weakened immune system) is not one of the causes of scleroderma. In fact, the immune system appears to be overactive in scleroderma, attacking healthy parts of the body and producing too much of a connective fiber called collagen, according to the Mayo Clinic.On the Other: Other Risk FactorsThe underlying cause of the action of the immune system in scleroderma is unknown. Risk factors include being a Choctaw Native American from Oklahoma or African American, being a woman, and being exposed to silica dust, industrial solvents or some medications used for chemotherapy, according to the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus.Bottom LineImmunodeficiency does not cause scleroderma, but scleroderma may lead to overproduction of collagen.
