Signs and symptoms of morphea vary, depending on the type and stage of the condition. They include:

• Reddish or purplish oval patches of skin, often on the abdomen, chest or back
• Patches that gradually develop a lighter or whitish center
• Linear patches, especially on the arms or legs
• A gradual change in the affected skin, which becomes hard, thickened, dry and shiny
• Loss of hair and sweat glands in the affected area over time

Morphea usually affects only the skin and underlying tissue but sometimes involves bone as well. The condition generally lasts several years and then disappears by itself. It may leave scars or areas of darkened or discolored skin.

The cause of morphea is unknown. Some experts think it is caused by an infection, but that theory has not been proved. The condition isn't contagious.

Certain factors may affect your risk of developing morphea, including:

• Female sex. Females are more likely to develop morphea than are males.
• Age. The condition can affect people at any age. It usually appears between the ages of 2 and 14 or in the mid-40s.

Morphea can cause a number of complications, including:

• Self-esteem issues. Morphea can have a negative effect on your self-esteem and body image, particularly if discolored patches of skin appear on your arms, legs or face.
• Movement problems. Morphea that affects the arms or legs can impair joint mobility.
• Widespread areas of hardened, discolored skin. Numerous new patches of hard, discolored skin may seem to join together, a condition known as generalized morphea.
• Eye damage. Children with head and neck morphea may experience unnoticeable but permanent eye damage.