Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: Clinico-Pathologic Correlation
March 2018
in “
Italian Journal of Dermatology and Venereology
”
cutaneous lupus erythematosus CLE autoimmune disease acute CLE subacute CLE chronic CLE lupus tumidus systemic lupus erythematosus SLE interface dermatitis lymphocytic infiltrate hyperkeratosis PAS-positive material deposits photoprotection topical steroids calcineurin inhibitors systemic hydroxychloroquine skin lupus lupus topical corticosteroids Protopic Elidel Plaquenil
Studysummary This article reviews clinical and histopathological aspects of cutaneous lupus erythematosus and its treatment, emphasizing the importance of photoprotection and outlining current therapies, but reports no new experimental results.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) was described as a chronic-relapsing autoimmune disease localized to the skin, with an annual incidence of 4 cases per 100,000 persons and a prevalence of 73 cases per 100,000 persons. The etiology remained unknown, but genetic, environmental, and pharmacological factors played significant roles. CLE was classified into acute, subacute, chronic, and intermittent forms, with skin lesions categorized as LE specific or non-specific. Histopathological features included interface dermatitis, lymphocytic infiltrate, hyperkeratosis, and PAS-positive material deposits. The progression of CLE to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) occurred in 12-18% of cases. Treatment focused on preventing recurrences and scarring, emphasizing photoprotection and using topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and systemic hydroxychloroquine.
