ETD

• bone fragility
• fragility fracture
• osteoporosis
• risk factors
• systemic sclerosis

Osteoporosis (OP) and fragility fractures pose a significant public health challenge, contributing to elevated morbidity, mortality, and substantial economic burden on the National Healthcare System. Systemic sclerosis (SSc), a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by fibrosis, vasculopathy, and systemic inflammation, is associated with several systemic complications and can affect the musculoskeletal system. However, national data on the prevalence of OP and fragility fractures in SSc patients remain scarce, and evidence concerning their causative factors is inconsistent. The "Sclerobone" study seeks to address these knowledge gaps through a retrospective analysis of data from a large cohort of SSc patients, facilitated by collaboration across multiple Italian centers. The onset of OP and its resultant fractures significantly impairs SSc patients' quality of life and functional capacity. Consequently, identifying predisposing factors is critical to implementing targeted and effective preventive strategies in this population of patients.