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Morphoea with prominent plasma cell endoneuritis
M Singh1, N Farquharson2, C Owen2
1Department of Dermatopathology, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.
Abstract:
Morphoea (localized scleroderma) is a cutaneous inflammatory condition characterized by the development of indurated and discoloured plaques. The histological features of morphoea typically include a superficial and deep perivascular and periadnexal chronic inflammatory infiltrate associated with variable degrees of dermal and/or subcutaneous sclerosis. The infiltrate is typically composed of lymphocytes, macrophages and conspicuous plasma cells. The early stages of morphoea may have a very prominent inflammatory infiltrate associated with subtle sclerosis. In addition, the inflammatory infiltrate may show a perineural and rarely intraneural distribution. We report two cases of morphoea that histologically showed plasma cell endoneuritis associated with subtle dermal sclerosis. These two cases highlight the potential for diagnostic confusion with infectious and inflammatory diseases, particularly leprosy and lupus.
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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