Morphea - A Limited Form of Scleroderma
Other names: Localized Scleroderma, Localized Linear
Scleroderma
Morphea is an autoimmune of the
skin and is a limited form of Scleroderma involving
the outermost layers of skin only, causing it to thicken
and harden. It does not affect internal organs or
systemic function, however it can affect joint mobility
when the skin thickens or hardens where joints bend
(elbows, knees, fingers, hands, etc.).
There are three forms of Morphea:
Plaque - presents with firm, round or oval areas
of the skin and can present anywhere one the body.
Generalized - when two or more areas of the skin
are affected
Linear - when it occurs across the torso, arms and/or
legs.
Initial symptoms of Morphea may include discoloration
(either lightening or darkening) of areas of the skin
that begin to harden or thicken.
Symptoms:
Patches of thickening, hardening skin
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing Morphea typically involves a thorough
physical examination by a dermatologist and if Morphea
is suspected, the dermatologist may take tissue samples
of the skin for biopsy.
Blood tests may also show an Elevated Anti-Histone
Antibody.
Treatment:
There is no cure for Morphea so treatment is usually
aimed at controlling symptoms and relieving suffering.
Corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation
and prevent additional hardening of the skin.
Antimalarial drugs such as Hydroxychloroquine are
commonly used to reduce inflammation and slow the
progression of the disease. Immunosuppressant therapy
is also an option to tame the immune response that
causes the Morphea to present. Some have found photo-therapy
beneficial, too.
Physical therapy is an important part of the treatment
process as it can help maintain mobility and improve
mobility when joints are affected by the hardening/thickening
of the skin over the hands, arms and legs.
Finding support in a group or with therapy is highly
recommended as Morphea can become a cosmetic issue
and the struggle of daily living with a chronic illness
can cause depression. Support can help provide additional
tools and resources for sufferers of Morphea.
Prognosis:
Morphea is not a fatal disease, however it does affect
a patient's ability to live a normal life. With proper
treatment and support, lifestyle adjustments and physical
therapy most patients have a very good outlook.
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