New aspects of localized scleroderma pathogenesis: practical basis

Localized Scleroderma

Morphea (localized scleroderma) is an autoimmune disease characterized by sclerosis of the skin and, in some cases, subcutaneous tissue. It occurs in children and adults. It is distinct from systemic sclerosis, but may nevertheless be associated with significant functional and cosmetic impairment. Morphea has several distinct subtypes, including circumscribed, linear, and generalized, all of wh...

Pathogenesis of Scleroderma

The term "scleroderma" traditionally has been uti l ized to describe the cutaneous changes of a heterogeneous group of disorders involving hardening, tightening, and decreased elasticity of the skin.' Two extreme forms have been identified-localized and diffuse. The localized form, specifically morphea, i s characterized by well-circumscribed, sclerotic plaques with an ivory-colored center and ...

Molecular aspects of scleroderma.

Scleroderma is a complex disease characterized by activation of the immune system, small-vessel vasculopathy, and fibrosis of the skin and other organs. This review is limited to the discussion of scleroderma fibroblast biology and the cellular and molecular mechanisms that contribute to the abnormal deposition of collagen. Selected aspects of abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) regulation by s...

Surgical Management of Localized Scleroderma

BACKGROUND Localized scleroderma is characterized by a thickening of the skin from excessive collagen deposits. It is not a fatal disease, but quality of life can be adversely affected due to changes in skin appearance, joint contractures, and, rarely, serious deformities of the face and extremities. We present six cases of localized scleroderma in face from our surgical practice. METHODS We ...

The Immunological Basis in the Pathogenesis of Gout