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Cutaneous Lupus

Skin manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus; an autoimmune skin disease with acute, subacute, and chronic (discoid) forms.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Cutaneous Lupus?

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a group of autoimmune diseases covering the skin manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is divided into three main forms: acute cutaneous lupus (e.g., malar rash), subacute cutaneous lupus, and chronic cutaneous lupus (e.g., discoid lupus).

Acute cutaneous lupus has a strong association with SLE; 'butterfly-type' erythema on the face is the typical finding. Subacute cutaneous lupus presents with annular or psoriasiform lesions in sun-exposed areas. Chronic discoid lupus is characterized by persistent plaques that leave scars and pigmentation changes.

All forms can be triggered by sunlight (UV); therefore, sun protection is the cornerstone of treatment. Diagnosis of cutaneous lupus is made with clinical findings, biopsy (histopathology, direct immunofluorescence), and serological tests.

Symptoms

Butterfly-shaped malar erythema on the face (acute CLE)
Ring-shaped lesions in sun-exposed areas (subacute CLE)
Scarring discoid plaques on the scalp
Pigmentation changes and atrophy on the face
Painful oral ulcers
Light sensitivity (photosensitivity)
Joint pain and general lupus symptoms (with SLE)

Risk Factors

Female gender (at a ratio of 9:1)
Family history and HLA-related genetic predisposition
Chronic UV exposure
Estrogen and hormonal changes
Some medications (drug-induced lupus: hydralazine, isoniazid, TNF inhibitors)
EBV and other viral infections
Smoking (for discoid lupus)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent redness on the face after sun exposure
  • Scarring scaly plaques on the scalp
  • Painful oral ulcers
  • Rash accompanied by joint pain, fatigue, fever
  • New systemic findings in a patient diagnosed with cutaneous lupus

Treatment Methods

01
Strict sun protection (SPF 50+, protective clothing)
02
Topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors
03
Oral hydroxychloroquine (antimalarial — core therapy)
04
Methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil in severe cases
05
Biologic therapies (belimumab, anifrolumab — in SLE)
06
Smoking cessation (improves discoid lupus course)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.