The esophageal and small-bowel manifestations of progressive systemic sclerosis. A pathophysiologic explanation of the roentgenographic signs.

Goetz suggested progressive systemic sclerosis as replacement for sclerderma because of recognized systemic visceral involvement. Gastrointestinal manifestations are caused by atrophy and fibrous replacement of the submucosa and muscularis of the bowel. The clinical picture, roentenographic findings, pathology, and pathophysiology of this condition are discussed.