Successful use of captopril in the treatment of "scleroderma renal crisis"

A 53-year-old man with scleroderma and severe renal failure was treated with the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril. Adequate control of blood pressure was achieved with this single agent and an impressive improvement of renal function followed. This case illustrates many features of the syndrome of "scleroderma renal crisis" and supports the use of captopril for its treatment.