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Linear scleroderma is a rare skin condition that often affects children and can lead to visible changes in the skin, especially on the forehead. It is a form of localised scleroderma, where a band of thickened skin forms, creating a depression or "hole" in the affected area. Over time, this condition can become more noticeable as the child grows. While it primarily affects the forehead, it can also appear on the hands, feet, or other parts of the body. An expert explains it and suggests a treatment option.
What is Linear Scleroderma?
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Linear scleroderma is a type of localised scleroderma, a condition that causes the skin to thicken and harden. Unlike systemic scleroderma, which affects internal organs, linear scleroderma is limited to the skin and underlying tissues. Dr Animesh Gupta, Surgeon, Saraswati Multispeciality Centre, Varanasi, explains, "This hole on the forehead is called linear scleroderma. It is a skin problem where a band forms in the skin, and it becomes thick. This problem mostly happens to children and worsens as they grow up."
Symptoms of Linear Scleroderma
The most common symptom of linear scleroderma is a visible line or band of thickened skin. This band may appear sunken or depressed, creating a "hole" on the forehead. Other symptoms include:
- Tightening of the skin
- Changes in skin colour (darker or lighter patches)
- Reduced mobility if it affects joints or limbs
- Hair loss in the affected area
In some cases, linear scleroderma can also affect the bones and muscles underneath the skin, leading to further complications.
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Treatment Options for Linear Scleroderma
Early treatment is essential to prevent the condition from worsening. Dr. Animesh Gupta shares a common surgical treatment option for linear scleroderma on the forehead: fat grafting surgery.
Fat Grafting Surgery
Fat grafting is a minimally invasive procedure that involves transferring fat from one part of the body to another. Dr Gupta explains, "For this, we take fat from the stomach and put it in the affected area. The depression or hole fills up, and the skin tightens and becomes flat. This procedure has very good results."
The steps involved in fat grafting surgery include:
- Fat Extraction: Fat is removed from the abdomen or another donor area using liposuction.
- Purification: The extracted fat is purified to remove impurities.
- Injection: The purified fat is injected into the depressed area on the forehead.
- Recovery: The skin tightens, and the depression is filled, giving a smoother appearance.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlighted the effectiveness of fat grafting in treating facial depressions caused by linear scleroderma. The study found that patients who underwent fat grafting experienced significant improvement in skin texture and appearance, with long-lasting results. This supports the expert’s recommendation of fat grafting as a reliable treatment option.
Other Treatment Options
In addition to fat grafting, other treatment options for linear scleroderma include:
- Topical Medications: Creams or ointments containing corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors can help reduce inflammation and improve skin texture.
- Phototherapy: UV light therapy may be used to treat skin discolouration and improve overall skin health.
- Physical Therapy: If linear scleroderma affects the limbs, physical therapy can help maintain mobility and prevent joint stiffness.
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Conclusion
Linear scleroderma on the forehead is a rare but treatable condition. With advancements in medical science, procedures like fat grafting offer promising results. The expert emphasises the importance of early intervention and highlights the effectiveness of fat grafting in restoring the skin’s natural appearance. If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of linear scleroderma, seek medical advice promptly to explore the best treatment options.