Presenting characteristics and progression of pediatric-onset morphea: Interim analysis of a prospective registry

Pediatr Dermatol. 2023 Jul-Aug;40(4):606-609. doi: 10.1111/pde.15350. Epub 2023 Jun 15.

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.

Keywords: localized scleroderma; morphea.

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Prospective Studies
  • Rare Diseases / complications
  • Scleroderma, Localized* / complications
  • Scleroderma, Localized* / diagnosis
  • Scleroderma, Localized* / drug therapy