cutaneous lupus erythematosus

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an autoimmune skin condition in which the immune system causes inflammation and damage within the skin. It may occur alone or together with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). CLE includes several subtypes, such as acute cutaneous lupus, subacute cutaneous lupus, and chronic cutaneous lupus (including discoid lupus erythematosus). Symptoms may include red or scaly patches, circular lesions, photosensitive rashes, and the characteristic butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose seen in some patients. Chronic forms may lead to scarring or changes in skin pigmentation. Treatment usually focuses on sun protection, topical medications, antimalarial medicines such as hydroxychloroquine, and therapies that control immune activity.

Cutaneous lupus is a type of lupus that mainly affects the skin. It can cause rashes, patches, or sores that may become worse after exposure to sunlight. Some people with cutaneous lupus may also have systemic lupus.

• Skin-related form of lupus • Caused by abnormal immune activity affecting the skin • May occur alone or with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) • Can cause rashes, scaly patches, skin lesions, and sunlight sensitivity • Types include acute, subacute, and chronic cutaneous lupus • Discoid lupus is a common chronic form • Sun protection is an important part of management • Treatments may include topical medicines and immune-modulating therapies