Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by skin inflammation. It is a subtype of lupus erythematosus, a systemic autoimmune disorder that can affect multiple organs and tissues of the body. Cutaneous lupus primarily affects the skin, although other organs may also be involved in some cases.
The condition is caused by an abnormal immune response in which the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, resulting in inflammation. There are various forms of cutaneous lupus, including discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE), and lupus profundus. Each type has its own distinctive features and patterns of skin involvement.
Symptoms of cutaneous lupus can vary depending on the subtype and individual factors. Common signs include a characteristic butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, skin lesions in the form of red raised patches or plaques, photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight), scaling, scarring, and hair loss in affected areas.
Diagnosis of cutaneous lupus is typically based on a combination of clinical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. Treatment for cutaneous lupus primarily focuses on managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. This may involve the use of topical and systemic medications, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, antimalarials, and photoprotection measures (sunscreen, protective clothing).
While cutaneous lupus can cause significant discomfort and impact a person's quality of life, it is generally considered less severe than systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) since it primarily affects the skin. However, it is important for individuals with cutaneous lupus to be monitored regularly as there is
