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Patricia M: Morphea Scleroderma

In 1980 when I was pregnant with my first child, I was surprised one day to wake up and look at my breasts, which looked as if they were on fire.

Needless to say I was very concerned, so I went to my obstetrician and he was just as surprised as I was. He sent me to a dermatologist who did a biopsy on my breast. When I went back for the results he told me I had morphea. I had no idea what this was so I asked him, to explain. He told me that this was a form of arthritis. He give me some type of cream to apply to my breasts.

He told me it would be a good idea not to breast feed, as he did not know if it would be a problem or not but he suggested I did not do that. I went through the next eighteen years not knowing any more than that. I would mention this on occasion to several doctors and they had never heard of this, or so they said.

My sister was diagnosed with scleroderma about two months ago (after years of health problems), and we were looking up on the Internet information for her when I saw morphea. Of course, I still do not understand it all, but at least I know I did not dream this up. Now I still do not know if I should try to find out anything or not, but at least I know this was real.

*Webmaster's Note: There are two main types of scleroderma : Localized and Systemic. Morphea is a form of Localized Scleroderma. It affects primarily the skin, and does not reduce lifespan. Morphea often fades or goes away on its own within five years. Some cases persist, however, and in severe cases it can be quite disabling and disfiguring.

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