morphea /môr″fē·ə/ [Gk, morphe, form] , the most common type of localized scleroderma. Morphea is characterized by patches of yellowish or ivory-colored hard, dry, smooth skin, usually painless. It is more common in females. Also called Addison’s keloid, localized scleroderma. Also spelled morphoea. Formerly called circumscribed scleroderma.