Morphea: a practical review of its diagnosis, classification and treatment

Pamela Rodríguez-Salgado1, María Teresa García-Romero1

  • 1Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Dermatology Department, Mexico City, Mexico.

Gaceta Medica De Mexico
|February 25, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Morphea, a rare localized scleroderma, presents skin hardening and sometimes affects other organs. Early diagnosis and individualized treatment are crucial for managing this complex connective tissue disease.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Rheumatology
  • Connective Tissue Diseases

Background:

  • Morphea, a subtype of localized scleroderma, is a rare connective tissue disease.
  • It is characterized by localized skin sclerosis and potential extracutaneous manifestations.
  • The exact etiology remains unclear, likely involving genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review practical aspects of morphea classification.
  • To discuss diagnostic methods and activity evaluation.
  • To summarize current therapeutic options and their evidence base.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on classification, diagnosis, and treatment of morphea.
  • Emphasis on clinical evidence for treatment efficacy and safety.

Main Results:

  • Morphea classification is complex due to varied presentations but essential for guiding treatment.
  • Early, individualized treatment is vital to prevent complications.
  • Various therapeutic options exist, with varying levels of clinical evidence.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of morphea requires understanding its classification and diagnostic criteria.
  • Prompt, personalized treatment strategies are key to optimal outcomes.
  • Further research is needed to solidify evidence for treatment efficacy and safety.

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