Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: A Review

The review discussed the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), which can occur with or without systemic disease. CLE was categorized into chronic, subacute, and acute forms. The global prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was 17-48 per 100,000 people, with skin disease being a common complaint in up to 70% of SLE patients. Common mucocutaneous manifestations included malar rash (40%), alopecia (24%), and oral ulcers (19%). High ANA titers (> 1:320) and arthralgias were identified as risk factors for the transition from cutaneous to systemic LE, indicating that patients with these symptoms should be closely monitored for potential development of SLE.