Scleroderma plaque

Rights Managed

SS21202403

Scleroderma plaque. Ruler showing the size of a patch (plaque) on the skin on a girl's back in a case of scleroderma, also known as localised morphea. Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks its own cells. It is characterised by a hardening of the skin. The patch seen here consists of a violaceous halo and an indurated yellowish white plaque. Scleroderma can affect any part of the body and be localised or systemic. Its cause is not known. There is no cure, but ointments and anti-inflammatory drugs can ease the symptoms.

DR HAROUT TANIELIAN / Science Source