Circumscribed Scleroderma

Circumscribed Scleroderma

Article
Dental Health
Skin Care
+3
Contributed byLester Fahrner, MD+1 moreJul 26, 2022

The topic Circumscribed Scleroderma you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Morphea.

Quick Summary:

  • Morphea is a localized type of Scleroderma that is characterized by thickened skin patches and plaques, which can increase and decrease in size. In some cases, the patches resolve without treatment
  • Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disorder of unknown cause. Connective tissues give support to the organs and skin. Individuals with Scleroderma have thick or hard connective tissue

There is currently a debate about how Scleroderma should be classified. A majority believe that it should be classified as an autoimmune rheumatologic disorder. Due to this, many researchers believe that the damage is caused by immune cells mistakenly attacking one’s own healthy tissue.

Scleroderma can be classified into two broad categories, which include Localized Scleroderma and Systemic Scleroderma:

  • Localized Scleroderma:
    • It often affects the skin tissues and does not cause harm to the other major organs
    • There are two types of Localized Scleroderma, namely Morphea and Localized Linear Scleroderma
  • Systemic Scleroderma:
    • It affects the skin, tissue beneath the skin, major organs, and blood vessels
    • Systemic Scleroderma also has two different types, namely Limited Systemic Scleroderma and Diffuse Systemic Scleroderma

Morphea is a type of Localized Scleroderma of unknown cause.

  • There are several different types of Morphea, which include Circumscribed Morphea, Generalized Morphea, and Superficial Morphea. The healthcare provider can assist in identifying the type of Morphea an individual is diagnosed with
  • The signs and symptoms of Morphea do not progress in a rapid manner, but can vary greatly from individual to individual. Hardening and tightening of the skin in a patch formation and restricted movement of the affected skin may be observed
  • The complications of Morphea include tightening of facial skin to a great degree causing the mouth to become narrower and smaller, in the rare case of facial involvement
  • There is currently no cure for Morphea, but medications and therapy may be used to control symptoms and prevent complications
  • The prognosis of Morphea is usually excellent, as it is a localized form of Scleroderma. Individuals with this form of Scleroderma do not have involvement of other organs other than the skin

Please find comprehensive information on Morphea regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Lester Fahrner, MD picture
Reviewed by

Lester Fahrner, MD

Chief Medical Officer, DoveMed Team

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