Extensive linear scleroderma en coup de sabre with exertion-induced hemiplegic migraine

We report the case of a 9-year-old girl with linear scleroderma en coup de sabre (LSCS) who developed progressive white matter involvement, presenting as intractable hemiplegic migraine-like attacks induced by exercise. After a period of severely aggressive course, clinical and radiological stabilization was achieved under immunosuppressant treatment. Intrathecal synthesis of IgG and lymphocytic pleocytosis provided indirect evidence of a chronic inflammatory process of the central nervous system. We discuss the possible immunopathogenic mechanisms responsible for the neurocutaneous involvement in LSCS, favouring the hypothesis of an autoimmune and inflammatory vasculopathy. The singular occurrence of hemiplegic migraine triggered by exertion add further insight to the currently unknown pathogenesis of scleroderma disorder. In addition, we highlight the importance of intensive immunosuppression approaches in selected cases, contrasting with the classic benign course of LCSC.