Lupus Panniculitis as an Initial Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
April 2016
in “
Medicine
”
TLDR Early treatment and regular check-ups are crucial for lupus patients to prevent progression and improve outcomes.
Lupus erythematosus panniculitis (LEP) is a rare variant of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus that can precede systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This document described a 19-year-old male who initially presented with nodules and ulcers on his leg and face, which resolved with methylprednisolone treatment. However, seven months after stopping the medication, his symptoms recurred with additional signs of fever, hair loss, and polyarthritis, leading to a diagnosis of SLE confirmed by blood tests and histopathology. The patient improved with subsequent treatment. Regular follow-ups for LEP patients are crucial due to the potential progression to SLE, and early diagnosis and treatment are essential for better outcomes.