Morphea is a skin condition that causes patches of reddish skin that thicken into firm, oval-shaped areas. It is a form of scleroderma. Patches most often occur on the abdomen, stomach, and back, and sometimes on the face, arms and legs. Morphea is classified according to the localization of the lesions and the depth of tissue involvement into localized or circumscribed (limited to one or several patches) , generalized (spread over larger areas of the body), linear (with linear lesions involving the outer skin and deeper layers), and pansclerotic (that involves not just the outer skin but the deeper layers, and sometimes the bone underneath, and also restricts movement of the joints). The underlying cause of morphea is unknown. It may be associated with an abnormal immune response, or be triggered by radiation therapy, repeated trauma to the affected area, or a recent infection. It usually goes away without treatment within 3 to 5 years, but some people are left with darkened areas of skin or rarely muscle weakness. Treatment may be used to control symptoms until it resolves, and may include phototherapy, prescription vitamin D creams, or corticosteroids.

The underlying cause of morphea is poorly understood. Theories on the cause are often drawn from studies of systemic sclerosis. A variety of factors, including autoimmunity, genetics, and vascular dysfunction may play a role in morphea. Multiple environmental factors (such as radiation, infections, skin trauma, or environmental exposures) also have been proposed as contributors to the development of morphea.

The majority of adults with morphea are managed with observation, topical medications, or phototherapy. Aggressive, systemic therapy with methotrexate and/or glucocorticoids is needed for those with active, deep morphea; lesions that may cause significant cosmetic disfigurement; joint contractures; or other functional impairment. Occupational and physical therapy are also important for those at risks for physical limitations. Phototherapy is also preferred for those with generalized morphea, but it is not an option for those with deep morphea due to the poor ability of ultraviolet light to penetrate deep tissues.

Detailed information about how morphea might be treated can be viewed here on Medscape Reference's website.

Linear morphea usually lasts longer, but also eventually improves. Linear and deep (panslerotic) morphea may cause considerable morbidity, especially in children, interfering with growth. Joint contractures, limb-length discrepancy, and prominent facial atrophy (shrinkage of underlying tissues) can cause substantial disability and deformity in people with linear or deep morphea. Limbs affected by severe morphea may be stiff and weak if there is muscle wasting.