Summary

The current standard classification criteria for systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) were published in 1980 based on studies beginning in 1975. Since that time our knowledge concerning SSc has improved, particularly with respect to antibodies and nailfold changes, and the need for a new classification system has become evident. At the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 2014 Meeting, representatives of a joint committee of the ACR and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) presented a proposed new classification criteria for SSc [van den Hoogen F et al. Arthritis Rheum 2013].