Can scleroderma lead to pulmonary hypertension?

Yes: 10-30 % of patients with scleroderma will develop pulmonary hypertension. Regular screening with pulmonary function tests is recommended to monitor for development of pulmonary hypertension. Echo cardiogram of heart is recommended as well as a screening tool.

Yes: Yes it can. In fact patients with the disease should be routinely screened for pulmonary hupertension.

Frequently: Scleroderma can often have pulmonary hypertension (increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries) as a consequence. A common variation of scleroderma called crest syndrome usually includes pulmonary hypertension and it is frequently the most serious part of the disease.

Yes: If pulmonary hypertension occurs, it can severely affect quality of life and may cause premature death. Certain types of scleroderma such as limited cutaneous scleroderma are associated with pulmonary hypertension. Other types such as morphea are not. Screening is essential.