Treatment of morphea or localized scleroderma: review of the literature

Abstract

Scleroderma is a disease that affects the microvasculature and the connective tissue. These alterations produce fibrosis and blood vessel occlusion. Its cause is still unknown, although the exaggerated synthesis of collagens I and IV, detected in skin and vessels, may be related to genetic, immunologic and, less frequently, exogenous factors as inhalation of silica and polyvinyl chloride. There is a localized and a systemic form, which affects both adults and children. The treatment of the localized form, also called morphea, is still controversial, and, in this article, the authors will discuss the main agents that were found to improve the lesions and symptoms.