​Depending on the initial symptoms, a person with Scleroderma may initially be seen and diagnosed by different specialists (e.g. rheumatologist, internist, dermatologist, lung specialist). Typically the rheumatologist will continue the care of the patient. The most common test for Scleroderma is an immunological blood test that detects antibodies produced by the body that are specific for Scleroderma.

Occasionally a skin biopsy (in which a sample of the skin is taken for examination under a microscope) or examination of the small blood vessels of the nail bed under the microscope is required.

Other tests may include X-rays, CT scan, echocardiogram (heart scan), lung function test, endoscopy (to look at the oesophagus and stomach) and urine tests, depending on whether other internal organs are affected.