Since imatinib mesylate exerts selective, dual inhibition of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) pathways a recent study was undertaken to test the potential use of imatinib mesylate as an antifibrotic drug also for the treatment of dermal fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The authors found that imatinib at biologically relevant concentrations has potent antifibrotic effects in vitro and in vivo, without toxic side effects. They conclude that its favorable pharmacokinetics and clinical experience with its use in other diseases, imatinib mesylate is a promising candidate for the treatment of fibrotic diseases such as SSc.