Ipsilateral Hemispheric Brain Atrophy in an Asymptomatic Child With Linear Morphea: A Case Report

Abstract

Scleroderma is a family of systemic and local diseases that tighten and harden the skin and other connective tissues. Local scleroderma (i.e., morphea) typically involves the skin and underlying tissue causing progressive functional and cosmetic disturbances. While the etiology of scleroderma is unknown, it is correlated with autoimmune dysfunction. Linear morphea is a disorder that primarily affects children. This report describes the case of a nine-year-old girl with skin eruptions in the forehead, near the left eye, and in the anterior neck in addition to an underlying focal hemispheric frontal brain atrophy. There is no evidence of neurological deficits in this case. Linear morphea can lead to brain atrophy, causing several neurological dysfunctions such as seizures and cognitive impairment. Follow-up monitoring is critical, and also early recognition of new symptoms for optimal patient outcomes.