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Published on: May 18, 2018
Presenting characteristics and progression of pediatric-onset morphea: Interim analysis of a prospective registry
Ashley T Ng1, Heather A Brandling-Bennett2, Beth A Drolet3
1Departments of Dermatology and Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Abstract:
Morphea is a rare fibrosing disorder with a highly variable disease course, which can complicate management. Here, we present a prospective cohort study describing the current treatments used in the management of pediatric-onset morphea and assessing responses to systemic and topical therapies. Most patients demonstrated inactive disease by 1 year, regardless of treatment, though recurrences were common in our cohort overall (39%). Our results support the need for continuous monitoring of all children with morphea following the completion of treatment, including topical treatment, due to high rates of disease relapse.
Insights
Morphea management in children shows most patients achieve inactive disease within a year. However, a high recurrence rate (39%) highlights the need for ongoing monitoring after treatment for this rare fibrosing disorder.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Fibrosing Disorders
Background:
- Morphea is a rare, heterogeneous fibrosing skin condition.
- Disease course variability complicates effective management strategies.
- Pediatric-onset morphea requires specific treatment considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe current treatment modalities for pediatric-onset morphea.
- To evaluate patient responses to systemic and topical therapies.
- To assess disease activity and recurrence rates in a pediatric cohort.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study design.
- Inclusion of pediatric patients with morphea.
- Monitoring of disease activity and treatment response over time.
Main Results:
- Most patients achieved inactive disease within one year, irrespective of treatment.
- A significant recurrence rate of 39% was observed in the cohort.
- Both systemic and topical therapies were utilized in management.
Conclusions:
- Continuous monitoring is essential for all children with morphea post-treatment.
- High relapse rates necessitate long-term follow-up due to disease variability.
- Further research into optimal management and long-term outcomes is warranted.
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