Lupus erythematous is an autoimmune skin condition that has a wide spectrum from localised skin disease, discoid lupus erythematosus(DLE) to wide spread systemic disease, systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) which can affect many organs.
Discoid lupus erythematosus is the most common type of chronic cutaneous lupus (CCLE), on the lupus erythematosus spectrum of illnesses. It presents with red, inflamed, coin-shaped patches of skin with a scaling and crusty appearance, most often on the scalp, cheeks, and ears.
Treatment of discoid lupus erythematosus
- Skin biopsy to ascertain the diagnosis
- Topical steroids
- Oral medication like antimalarials ( eg hydroxychloroquine)
Systemic lupus erythematosus affects the body immune system in many parts of the body. Symptoms may be mild to severe. Early symptom is a photosensitive rash (a rash that develops in response to sun exposure), particularly on the face and upper arms. On the face it causes a rash that spreads across the cheeks and nose and spares the forehead (the butterfly rash). Other early symptoms are unexplained fever and pain, swelling, and stiffness of multiple joints. Schedule an appointment with Dr Joyce Lim for the correct diagnosis and treatment
Treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus
- Skin biopsy
- Blood test including antinuclear factor (ANA)
- Topical steroids
- Oral steroids, anti-inflammatory, disease modifying drugs