A morphine patch is a patch of hard, thick, discolored skin that usually appears on the chest, abdomen, back, or limbs, but it can also affect the face, scalp, or forehead. There are no internal organs affected by morphea, but it can cause cosmetic problems, pain, itching, or movement difficulties. Morphea usually improves on its own, but it can leave scars or dark spots on the body. Morphea may be caused by the immune system, genetics, or environmental factors. It can be treated with medications, creams, or light therapy.
Some of the possible factors that may contribute to morphea include the following, although the exact cause is unknown.
Dysfunction of the immune system, which can lead to the body attacking its own skin cells and making excess collagen, a protein that provides strength and elasticity to the skin
Having a family history of morphea or inheriting certain genes that affect the skin or immune system may be genetic factors
Radiation, chemicals, infections, and trauma may trigger or worsen skin inflammation due to environmental factors
It cannot be passed from person to person, and it is not related to scleroderma, a condition that affects the skin and internal organs.
Morphea symptoms vary according to the type and severity of the condition. The most common symptom is the appearance of one or more patches of skin that look like:
Shaped oval or irregularly
Colors such as red, purple, brown, or white
A firm, dry, or shiny texture
Touching is painless or slightly tender
An itchy or burning sensation
As morphea patches develop, they may grow or shrink over time, ranging in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size. They can affect any part of the body, but they are more common on the trunk and the limbs. They can also affect the face, the scalp, or the forehead, causing cosmetic or functional complications.
The types of morphea vary based on the location, number, and depth of the patches. Here are some examples:
The most common type of plaque morphea involves a few small patches on the skin
An extensive area of the body may be covered by large patches of morphea called generalized morphea
One or more bands of thickened skin run along an arm, a leg, or the forehead in linear morphea
Morphea affecting muscles, bones, or joints that extends deeper into the tissue
Normally, morphea can be diagnosed by a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in skin conditions. A patient's medical history, physical examination, and the appearance of the patches are used to make the diagnosis. In order to confirm the diagnosis or to rule out other conditions, the following tests may be performed:
Biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of the affected skin and examining it under a microscope
Inflammation, infection, and autoimmune disorders can be detected with blood tests
Bone, muscle, or joint imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs, can detect damage.
There is no cure for morphea, but there are treatments that can help improve the appearance and the symptoms of the condition. A patient's treatment options may depend on the type and severity of the condition, as well as their preferences and needs. Some of the possible treatments are:
Inflammation and collagen production in the skin can be reduced with medications such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or antimalarials
Creams or ointments that soften, hydrate, or lighten the skin, such as moisturizers, steroids, or calcipotriene
The use of ultraviolet light therapy, such as ultraviolet A (UVA) and narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB), can stimulate the skin cells and improve skin texture and color
Massage, stretching, and exercises can improve blood circulation and mobility in affected areas through physical therapy
Skin grafting or cosmetic procedures can improve or repair skin defects or deformities
The cause of morphea is unknown, and it is not inherited. However, some general measures may help reduce complications or improve quality of life.
Sun exposure, stress, or trauma may worsen skin inflammation, so avoid them
Wearing sunscreen, clothing, or gloves to protect the skin from injuries, infections, or irritations
Use mild soap, lotion, or oil to keep the skin clean, moisturized, and healthy
Getting medical attention and treatment as soon as possible, and following the doctor's instructions
Educating oneself and others about the health and wellbeing effects of morphea
Sharing experiences, feelings, and tips in a support group or online community for people with morphea
