Morphea

Yeah, this is a new term to me. I was talking to my brother in law, who is an internist, on the phone and I was telling him about my SCLE rashes and I happened to remember about this different kind of rash that is located on my side (back area). It is about 1-2 centimeters in diameter and it looks kind of like an old burn has a whitish silky looking texture (best way I can describe it). It is very thick when you press on it and it is very tender beneath the skin. It feels like it is digging into muscle and into my ribs.

I first thought it was some kind of skin cancer and then forgot to mention it to my docs since I hardly ever see it. My BIL thinks it sounds like morphea (or localized scleroderma). He says its different than systemic scleroderma but it is not uncommon with connective tissue diseases. I already have a dermy appt next month but I wanted to see if anyone here has this. He also said it could be possible panniculitis.

Anybody experience either?

A rheumatologist generally treats scleroderma. Since it is pretty rare, you usually seek out a rheumy who is a "specialist" in treating scleroderma. You could also see a dermatologist for this type of scleroderma. Morphea is a type of scleroderma. It is NOT systemic i.e. it does not affect the internal organs. Let us know what you find out.

xoxo emmie

Des, I'm sorry you're going through this and I hate to hear that you may have another diagnosis. Hang in there until your appointment. Thank goodness what you have is probably not systemic.