A Study of Cutaneous Manifestations in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
May 2018
TLDR Skin symptoms in lupus help diagnose and manage the disease early.
The study on cutaneous manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) involved 62 patients and found that skin lesions, both specific and non-specific, provided important diagnostic and prognostic information. The most affected age group was the second and third decades, with a female to male ratio of 7:1. Photosensitivity was the most common precipitating factor, and diffuse hair loss was the most frequent non-specific skin lesion. Malar rash was the most common specific lesion. The musculoskeletal system was the most commonly involved, and renal involvement was linked to the highest morbidity. All patients tested positive for antinuclear antibodies. Understanding these skin manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of SLE.