Cutaneous Manifestations of Lupus Erythematosus

The document from 2012 outlines the various skin manifestations of Lupus Erythematosus (LE), including LE-specific and LE-nonspecific conditions. It notes that skin symptoms are present initially in 25% of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and eventually in 70-80%. The most common form of cutaneous lupus is discoid LE (DLE), which can cause permanent alopecia if it affects the scalp. The document also covers treatment options, emphasizing the importance of smoking cessation, photoprotection, and vitamin D supplementation due to the high photosensitivity of CLE patients. Topical corticosteroids, antimalarials, and other systemic therapies are discussed, with a study of 30 patients showing significant benefit from tacrolimus ointment over placebo. Thalidomide has shown considerable efficacy in a retrospective study of 48 patients, despite its serious side effects. Other treatments like dapsone, retinoids, and biologics have also been effective in various studies, with a Brazilian study of 65 patients reporting a 97% remission rate with thalidomide. The document highlights the need for individualized treatment plans and monitoring due to the potential side effects of these therapies.