Bullous morphea profunda.

A deep sclerotic process developed on the shins of a 58-year-old man, and eosinophilic fasciitis or morphea profunda was suspected clinically. Bullae later arose on the plaques, and histologic examination of a skin biopsy specimen revealed sclerosis and inflammation of the deep dermis, panniculus, and fascia, with subepidermal edema causing formation of bullae. No lymphatic obstruction or vasculitis was seen. Two plaques of typical morphea on the penis were noticed 10 months later. The patient had no peripheral or tissue eosinophilia, hypergammaglobulinemia, hematologic abnormality, or history of exertion before the onset of the disease. The sclerotic process involved more than the fascia. In describing this deeper variant of morphea, the term "morphea profunda" appears to be more appropriate than "eosinophilic fasciitis."