Comparative Evaluation of Morphea Treatment Response Using Morphea Activity Measure Vs. Losai Publisher



Ansari MS ; Memari H ; Vahabi SM ; Hosseini F ; Sadeghi B ; Etesami I
Source: Archives of Dermatological Research Published:2026

Abstract

Morphea (localized scleroderma) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder in which accurate assessment of disease activity is essential for guiding treatment. Existing tools have limitations. The Morphea Activity Measure (MAM), initially validated in pediatric populations, may offer a practical alternative. To evaluate the correlation between MAM and the Localized Scleroderma Activity Index (LoSAI) in both adult and pediatric patients, and to determine the inter‑evaluator reliability of MAM over six months. In this single‑center prospective study, 33 patients were assessed at baseline and six months post‑treatment. MAM was scored independently by two dermatologists, while LoSAI was assessed by one evaluator. MAM scores decreased significantly after treatment (Evaluator 1: p < 0.001; Evaluator 2: p = 0.015), reflecting improved disease activity. Pre‑treatment, MAM correlated strongly with LoSAI for both evaluators. Post‑treatment, correlations were moderate and non‑significant for one evaluator. Inter‑evaluator reliability of MAM was excellent (ICC > 0.90), although specific components such as violaceous rim and warmth showed weaker agreement. MAM is a responsive and reliable tool for assessing morphea activity, with moderate correlation to LoSAI. Refinement of certain components such as objective temperature measurement for warmth and standardized visual guides for violaceous coloration may enhance its clinical utility. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2026.