British Association of Dermatologists Guidelines for the Management of People with Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus 2021

The 2021 guidelines by the British Association of Dermatologists for managing cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) provided comprehensive recommendations, emphasizing the importance of considering systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in patients with CLE. Key recommendations included using antimalarials like hydroxychloroquine as first-line systemic treatment and cautious use of systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents for severe cases. The guidelines stressed lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation and photoprotection, and advised against herbal supplements. Special considerations were given to pregnant patients, with specific drug recommendations. The guidelines also highlighted the need for further research, particularly in children, and the establishment of standardized outcome measures and a UK-wide disease registry for CLE. They addressed CLE's multifactorial pathogenesis, classification, and the significant emotional impact on patients, emphasizing photoprotection and the potential progression to SLE.