Case of generalized morphea complicated with systemic sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Localized scleroderma (LSc), or morphea, is a rare fibrosing skin disease distinct from systemic sclerosis (SSc).
• Generalized morphea (GM) is a rare subtype of LSc, affecting 7-9% of patients, characterized by widespread skin lesions.
• Previous research indicates SSc can be complicated by GM, separate from GM-like SSc.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of coexisting LSc and SSc.
• To describe a unique clinical presentation where LSc lesions appeared before the onset of SSc.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing clinical presentation and disease progression.
• Review of relevant literature on LSc, GM, and SSc coexistence.

Main Results:

• The presented case demonstrates LSc skin lesions manifesting prior to the clinical manifestation of SSc.
• This case adds to the understanding of the complex relationship between LSc and SSc.

Conclusions:

• The coexistence of LSc and SSc is rare, and this case illustrates a distinct temporal relationship between the two conditions.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications of this dual diagnosis.