Sclerosing diseases of the skin

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Sclerosing skin diseases comprise a group of distinct dermatological conditions characterized by fibrotic changes that may severely impair patients' quality of life. These conditions often present with cutaneous manifestations and, in some cases, may extend to extracutaneous tissues, potentially resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. This review explores the current understanding of the four most prevalent sclerosing skin diseases - localized scleroderma (morphea), systemic sclerosis (SSc), scleromyxedema, and scleredema adultorum of Buschke - as well as sclerotic conditions induced by external agents. Here, we discuss the pathophysiology, clinical characteristics, and disease course of these entities. In addition, diagnostic tools and treatment options are addressed in detail.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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