Localized scleroderma
Localized Scleroderma
Localized scleroderma (pronunciation: loh-kuh-lahyzd skleer-uh-dur-muh), also known as morphea, is a form of scleroderma that affects the skin and underlying tissues. The term is derived from the Greek words "skleros" meaning hard, and "derma" meaning skin.
Definition
Localized scleroderma is a rheumatic disease characterized by excessive production and accumulation of collagen in the skin, leading to hardening and thickening of the affected areas. It is a subtype of scleroderma, a term that refers to a group of autoimmune diseases that affect the connective tissues in the body.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of localized scleroderma is the appearance of hard, tight patches of skin that can be white, red, or brown. These patches may be oval or linear in shape. Other symptoms can include changes in skin color, hair loss over the affected area, and, in severe cases, deformities in the bones and muscles underneath the affected skin.
Causes
The exact cause of localized scleroderma is unknown. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Some researchers suggest that it may be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Treatment
Treatment for localized scleroderma focuses on managing symptoms and preventing the disease from progressing. This can include medications to suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids, and treatments to improve skin flexibility, such as physical therapy and light therapy.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Localized scleroderma
- Wikipedia's article - Localized scleroderma
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