Work

Facial Swelling in a Young Adult With Type 1 Diabetes: Morbihan Disease as a Scleroderma Mimic

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Scleredema diabeticorum and Morbihan disease (solid facial edema) can mimic scleroderma, creating diagnostic challenges for rheumatologists. We report a 19-year-old male with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes (glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) >9%) presenting with progressive facial swelling. Extensive workup excluded superior vena cava syndrome and connective tissue diseases. Histopathological examination of the skin fragment was suggestive of scleredema diabeticorum or Morbihan disease secondary to rosacea. Key differentiating features included sparing of hands/feet, absence of Raynaud's phenomenon, and non-specific low-titer anti-nuclear antibody (ANA). This case emphasizes recognizing scleroderma mimics to ensure appropriate therapy.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.101635

Authors: Rania Shammas, Santiago Gudino-Rosales, Diana Kneiber, G. Peter Sarantopoulos, Thanda Aung

Institutions: University of California, Los Angeles, University of California, Riverside

Language: English

Topic: Skin Diseases and Diabetes

Subfield: Dermatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7124500467