Morphea in children

Abstract

Morphea or localized scleroderma is a connective tissue disease of unknown aetiology. There is excessive collagen deposition, with thickening and induration of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Associations with radiation, vaccination, infections, autoimmune disease and trauma have been documented. Usually it is asymptomatic and self limiting, but with a variable course, sometimes causing important functional and aesthetic secuelae. In childhood, morphea shows a greater variety of clinical presentations. They can be classified as linear, deep, plaque like and generalised. No diagnostic laboratory tests are available, so there needs to be an accurate relation between clinical findings and tests solicited. Therapy is not standardised, with lack of clear criteria about whom to treat and for how long. Therapeutic agents include steroids, vitamin D analogs and anti-rheumatic agents. The prognosis depends on the type of lesion and the characteristics of the patient.