Cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Evidence: Antibody
Names
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) Discoid lupus
Description
Discoid lupus erythematosus, also referred to as DLE, is a chronic but localized skin condition where sores (lesions) form on the scalp, face, elbow, or fingertips. In DLE, the autoimmune system attacks connective tissue. The lesions are red, inflamed patches with a scaling and crusting appearance. If present in areas with a significant amount of hair, the lesions can cause scarring and hair loss in that area. Because the symptoms are similar to other skin diseases and other types of lupus, a skin biopsy must be performed to confirm a diagnosis.
The primary difference between discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is that DLE mainly affects the skin, while SLE also affects the organs, such as the heart, blood vessels, nervous system, and kidneys. Patients can have both DLE and SLE.
Patient Groups
Prevalence
US Cases: 224,000-262,000 [Gauzere 2019]
Typical Age of onset
DLE onset is usually between 40-50 and it is more common in women. Source: McDaniel and Tanner (2019)
Symptoms
Round sores (lesions)
Thick scales on scalp
Blistering lesions on elbows or tips of fingers
Patches of hair loss
Thinning of skin
Developing light or dark skin patches
Peeling
Brittle or bent fingernails
Thick scalp
Ulcers on the inside of lips
References
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology McDaniel and Tanner (2019) Vaillant et al (2020) Lee (2019)
Profile By Brooke Juday
