Scleroderma annulare (Morphoea)

Ring-shaped scleroderma (Morphoea) is a localized form of scleroderma, characterized by the appearance of dense, ivory-colored, waxy plaques on the skin without any internal sclerosis. These plaques may disappear on their own over time, but this process is quite slow.

Ring-shaped scleroderma (Morphoea): causes, symptoms and treatment

Scleroderma annularis, also known as Morphoea, is a localized form of scleroderma that is characterized by the formation of dense, ivory, waxy plaques on the skin. These plaques can appear on any part of the body, but most often they appear on the limbs, back, abdomen and chest.

The causes of Morphoea are unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks healthy tissue. This leads to damage to collagen and elastin, which provide skin elasticity. Additionally, some studies have linked the emergence of Morphoea to infectious diseases and injuries.

Symptoms of Morphoea can vary depending on what part of the body is affected. However, usually at the initial stage of the disease, dense, yellowish-white or reddish spots appear on the skin. These spots can become hard, smooth, and shiny over time. The skin around these plaques may be thinner than usual and have a reddish tint. Some people may experience itching or tingling.

If the disease is not treated, Morphoea can progress, leading to thickening of the skin and limited mobility in the affected area. In rare cases, the disease may spread to neighboring tissues and organs.

The diagnosis of Morphoea is usually made by a doctor based on an external examination of the affected area of ​​skin and a tissue biopsy for testing in a laboratory. In addition, the doctor may order additional tests to rule out other diseases.

Treatment for Morphoea may include topical steroids and ointments that help reduce inflammation and itching. If the disease progresses or affects large areas of the skin, your doctor may prescribe systemic medications such as methotrexate, which suppress the immune system. In some cases, physical therapy may be required to keep the affected area mobile.

Although Morphoea is not a life-threatening disease, it can cause significant discomfort and limitation of movement. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor at the first signs of the disease to begin treatment and prevent progression of the disease.

Scleroderma annulare is one of the forms of the disease in which human skin is affected. It is characterized by the presence of plaques that disappear on their own over time. In this case, the disease can have very serious complications, for example, roughening of the skin, its redness and the appearance of compactions at the site of ulcers.

Scleroderma annulare affects people under 45 years of age. The disease occurs much more often in women than in men. If these plaques appear, you should immediately consult a doctor, as dangerous complications may arise.

With this form of sclerosis, blockage of blood vessels occurs, which leads to impaired nutrition of the skin and the appearance of the above symptoms. If timely help is not provided, the disease can progress and lead to serious health consequences.

In patients with scleroderma annulare, the skin becomes dense, thickened, and the skin color changes to a waxy color. Sometimes skin punctures and tissue ulceration occur. Treatment of this disease involves mainly conservative methods, which include taking