Morphoea with prominent plasma cell endoneuritis

M Singh1, N Farquharson2, C Owen2

  • 1Department of Dermatopathology, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.

Insights

Morphoea, a skin condition causing hardened plaques, can present with plasma cell endoneuritis, mimicking infections like leprosy. This highlights the importance of accurate histological diagnosis in localized scleroderma.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pathology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Morphoea (localized scleroderma) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
  • Histologically, it features inflammatory infiltrates and sclerosis.
  • The infiltrate can involve nerves, leading to diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

  • Two cases of morphoea exhibited plasma cell endoneuritis.
  • Subtle dermal sclerosis was also noted in these cases.
  • This presentation can be mistaken for infectious or inflammatory neuropathies.

Findings:

  • The histological findings in these morphoea cases included plasma cell endoneuritis.
  • Associated subtle dermal sclerosis was present.
  • The inflammatory infiltrate showed perineural and intraneural patterns.

Implications:

  • These findings underscore the potential for misdiagnosis of morphoea.
  • Distinguishing morphoea from infectious diseases like leprosy is crucial.
  • Accurate histological interpretation is vital for appropriate patient management.

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