Morphea profunda – a case report of deep localized scleroderma with severe thorax deformity

Abstract

Deep scleroderma is a rare form of limited scleroderma characterised by deep sclerosis that may involve the muscles, fascia, subcutaneous tissue and deep layers of the skin. The lesions usually occur in the paraspinal line and may be predisposed by factors such as infections, injuries, exposure to radiation or the use of stimulants. Due to an insufficient level of awareness among healthcare professionals, diagnosis can be significantly delayed, and irreversible as well as crippling deformities can result. The study presents the case of a 67-year-old female patient with deep scleroderma whose lesions occur in an unusual location on the anterior surface of the thorax. This case demonstrates the importance of early diagnosis and the introduction of appropriate therapy in the active phase of the disease to avoid such severe consequences.

Keywords

• localized scleroderma
• deep localized scleroderma
• connective tissue