Efficacy and Tolerability of STI571 (Imatinib Mesylate) for the Treatment of Fibrosis in Participants With Systemic Sclerosis

Inclusion Criteria:

Male and female participants who are equal to or older than 18 years of age and who have early diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (Disease duration < 18 months from the first non-Raynaud's symptom)
Participants with a modified Rodnans Skin Score (MRSS) of at least 20 in the absence of trunk involvement or a MRSS of at least 16 in patients with trunk involvement
Female patients of childbearing potential practicing two acceptable forms of contraception

Exclusion Criteria:

SSc patients with a MRSS greater than 35
Concurrent connective tissue diseases other than systemic sclerosis
Significant pre-existing heart, liver, lungs, digestive system, blood and other diseases, cancer
Conditions that might mimic the potential side effects of STI571 (blood conditions, liver damage, chronic diarrhea, edema)
Concurrent medical therapies (or during last 6 weeks before first dosing) that may potentially influence outcome of the study
Allergic to the study medication
Pregnancy
Breast feeding