<p>A review of cutaneous lupus erythematosus: improving outcomes with a multidisciplinary approach</p>
May 2019
in “
Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare
”
TLDR A multidisciplinary approach is essential for effectively managing cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
The review emphasized the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach for managing cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) due to its diverse clinical presentations and potential overlap with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Dermatologists played a key role in diagnosis, often working with other medical specialists to enhance patient outcomes. The Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) criteria aided in the classification and management of CLE. The review highlighted the prevalence of CLE, particularly discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), which often led to scarring alopecia, and discussed the disease's pathophysiology, including photosensitivity and genetic factors. It also addressed the psychological impact of CLE and the importance of both nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatments, such as sun protection, smoking cessation, and systemic therapies. The review concluded by stressing the need for a combined multidisciplinary clinic to manage CLE effectively.