Lupus pernio is a medical condition that affects the skin and is commonly associated with sarcoidosis. The spelling of this word can be explained through IPA phonetic transcription, which would be /ˈluːpəs ˈpɛːniəʊ/. The first syllable "lu-" is pronounced with a long "u" sound as in "loo". The second syllable "-pus" is pronounced as "puss". The third syllable "-per-" is pronounced with a stress on the "per" and a short "e" sound as in "pet". The fourth and final syllable "-nio" is pronounced with a long "i" sound as in "knee-oh".
Lupus pernio is a medical term used to describe a specific manifestation of sarcoidosis, a chronic inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs in the body. Sarcoidosis is characterized by the formation of granulomas, which are small clumps of immune cells that can cause organ damage and inflammation.
Lupus pernio specifically refers to the skin lesions associated with sarcoidosis. It is typically characterized by the presence of raised, purplish-red or violaceous nodules or plaques that appear on the face, particularly the nose, cheeks, ears, and lips. These lesions are often persistent and can be disfiguring.
The exact cause of lupus pernio is unknown, but it is believed to result from an abnormal immune response in individuals with a genetic predisposition. It is more commonly seen in individuals of African or European descent and tends to occur in chronic or advanced stages of sarcoidosis.
Diagnosis of lupus pernio typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various medical tests, including skin biopsies and imaging studies. Treatment usually focuses on managing the underlying sarcoidosis and alleviating the symptoms of lupus pernio. This may include the use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressant drugs, or skin-directed therapies, such as topical corticosteroids, retinoids, or cryotherapy.
It is important to note that lupus pernio can be a chronic and progressive condition, and it may cause cosmetic and functional concerns. Regular monitoring and close follow-up with a healthcare professional are necessary to manage the disease effectively and prevent further complications.
L. Erythematodes of the ears and hands following chilblains.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "lupus pernio" has its roots in Latin.
"Lupus" means "wolf" in Latin. "Pernio" comes from the Latin verb "pernire", which means "to ulcerate" or "to fester".
So, "lupus pernio" can be translated to mean "wolf-like ulceration" or "wolf's sore" in English. It is a term used in medicine to refer to a chronic skin condition characterized by raised, reddish-purple lesions often affecting the face and fingers, which resemble the skin of a wolf.