Dysregulation of B cells has previously been shown in patients with SSc, demonstrating increased levels of circulating naïve B cells, diminished memory B cell populations, the presence of autoantibodies, increased expression of CD19 and infiltration of B cells into the skin and lung tissue of these patients.3 4 34 35 While it remains unknown how B cells contribute to the pathogenesis of dcSSc, our findings suggest HSCT treatment results in a B cell repertoire specific for a wider range of antigens which may result in lower targeting of one or multiple pathogenic antigens. The gene discussed is CD19; the disease is systemic sclerosis.