HLA-D Antigens in Progressive Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)

Abstract
Seven unrelated patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) were studied for HLA-DW antigens. 4/7 possessed the DW1 antigen. This suggests that a common genetic factor, linked to the major histocompatibility complex, may be present in the majority of patients with scleroderma.