Where can I get a biopsy of morphea?
For superficial circumscribed and generalized morphea, a deep punch biopsy (including subcutaneous fat) is usually sufficient. Different histologic features are seen at the sclerotic center versus the inflammatory border of the lesion, and thus the location of the biopsy should be noted.
Who can diagnose linear scleroderma?
Specific Tests for Scleroderma One of the most important tests that a physician performs is a physical examination. A rheumatologist will be able to assess the skin for skin tightening or swelling that is typically seen in patients with scleroderma.
How do you treat linear morphea?
Treatment
- Medicated creams. Your doctor may prescribe a vitamin D cream, such as calcipotriene, to help soften the skin patches.
- Light therapy. For severe or widespread morphea, treatment may include the use of ultraviolet light (phototherapy).
- Oral medications.
- Physical therapy.
Is linear morphea serious?
Linear and deep morphea can interfere with the growth of children and lead to further problems, including differences in limb length, stiff and weak limbs, eye damage, and even death, but this is considered quite rare.
How do you biopsy a morphea?
Is linear scleroderma curable?
Although there is currently no cure for linear scleroderma, there are several treatment options, such as medication, surgery, and physical therapy that can help relieve the condition’s symptoms.
Do Rheumatologists treat scleroderma?
Scleroderma is rare, and the signs and symptoms are similar to many other diseases. Doctors who most commonly diagnose scleroderma are dermatologists and rheumatologists.
Does linear morphea go away?
Although morphea eventually goes away on its own over time, treatment usually is recommended to decrease symptoms. Treatment works best when the condition is in its early stages, so the sooner a lesion is treated, the better.
What causes linear morphea?
The cause of morphea is unknown. It may be caused by an unusual reaction of your immune system. In people at increased risk of morphea, it could be triggered by injury to the affected area, medications, chemical toxins, an infection or radiation therapy. The condition isn’t contagious.
What is the difference between morphea and linear scleroderma?
The distinction between morphea and linear morphea is that morphea does not involve the underlying structures of the skin. The treatment of localized scleroderma remains unsatisfactory. Fortunately it is generally self-limiting and if it is an easily hidden area may require no treatment at all.
Can morphea be diagnosed with a biopsy?
Although a presumptive diagnosis of morphea can frequently be made based on clinical findings, a biopsy can be used to confirm the diagnosis and delineate the depth of involvement. For superficial circumscribed and generalized morphea, a deep punch biopsy (including subcutaneous fat) is usually sufficient.