These plaques can be rather soft to the touch. Linear morphea evolves in bands along the nerve pathways. Pansclerotic morphea or morphea profunda has plaques extending into the deeper layers of the skin, subcutaneous fat, muscles and bone. It can affect joints, causing limitation of movement. Linear scleroderma forms plaques in long streaks or bands that may extend the length of an arm or leg.
Plaques are most common on the legs, arms, and chest.
Because linear scleroderma is most common under age ten, it can result in uneven growth of limbs. Linear scleroderma of the face may cause alterations in facial structure which could require surgical correction. Facial hair may be lost, including the eyebrows. Involvement of the eye, with chronic inflammation and muscular problems is possible, but not common. Theories about the cause of morphea and linear scleroderma involve vascular damage and autoimmunity.