The specific objective of this study is to verify effect and tolerability of a new therapy on pulmonary and skin fibrosis in patients affected by systemic sclerosis. This therapy is based upon recent data regarding the pathogenesis of scleroderma and is intended to interfere with PDGF receptor tyrosine kinase activity which plays a central role in type I collagen gene expression. The proposed action has the following other objectives: 1. strengthening of a national network composed of centres trained in the use of experimental drugs for this disease, with a special focus on the development of uniform criteria for outcome evaluation, enforcement of communication channels, creation of strategic synergies for the future, through ideas, projects and data exchange; 2. training of young investigators; 3. sharing of advanced experimental techniques and 'rare' biological samples to improve knowledge about pathogenesis of scleroderma, avoiding as well costly overlap.