Morphea and other localized forms of scleroderma

Abstract

Purpose of review: Morphea, also known as localized scleroderma, is a disorder of excessive collagen deposition leading to thickening of the dermis and/or subcutaneous tissues and may cause significant morbidity. This review will describe new developments in the evaluation and management of morphea as well as its pathophysiology. The reader will be able to apply these findings to patient management.

Recent findings: The recent development of validated outcome measures (i.e. the localized scleroderma cutaneous assessment tool) as well as consensus treatment recommendations provide a platform for collaboration among specialties to develop both standardized assessment tools and therapeutic trials. New studies have also begun to investigate the immunological underpinnings of morphea.

Summary: The promise of evidence-based treatments for morphea in the near future will provide better care for patients with morphea and understanding its pathophysiology will lay groundwork for the development of new treatments.