In this report the case histories and working conditions of 61 patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) were evaluated and compared with those of age- and sex-matched controls. An extreme female predominance was found and the sclerodermal involvement of the trunk was also commonly demonstrated. Prior occupational exposure to chemicals (mainly organic solvents) was found in 28% of the patients. Furthermore a high proportion of menstrual bleeding disturbances was found.