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Treatment options for localized scleroderma.
1Divisions of Dermatology and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Skin Therapy Letter
|April 7, 2000
Summary
Localized scleroderma (morphea) involves skin thickening. Plaque morphea treatments include corticosteroids and calcipotriol, while generalized and linear forms benefit from UVA therapy, though therapeutic options remain uncertain.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
- Immunodermatology
Background:
- Localized scleroderma, also known as morphea, is a chronic inflammatory condition.
- It is characterized by skin thickening and induration.
- Management involves both dermatologists and rheumatologists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current therapeutic modalities for localized scleroderma.
- To highlight treatment options for different morphea subtypes.
- To acknowledge the existing therapeutic uncertainty.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing treatment guidelines and studies.
- Analysis of therapeutic efficacy for various morphea forms.
- Synthesis of management strategies employed by specialists.
Main Results:
- Plaque morphea: Super-potent corticosteroids and calcipotriol are primary treatments.
- Generalized and linear morphea: UVA therapy is the preferred modality.
- Significant therapeutic uncertainty persists for many cases.
Conclusions:
- Current treatments offer options for specific morphea subtypes.
- UVA therapy shows promise for more widespread or linear disease.
- Further research is needed to address therapeutic gaps and improve patient outcomes.