The Dermatology Practice.

#lupus #butterflyrash #skinrash #sunsensitivity #photosensitivity

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. Cutaneous lupus, also known as skin lupus, is a type of lupus that primarily affects the skin, causing a range of symptoms including red, scaly rashes, itching, irritation, and swelling.
Lupus is named after the Latin word for wolf. This follows from the characteristic butterfly-shaped rash that appears centrofacially in patients with cutaneous lupus, which was thought to resemble a wolf’s bite.

Symptoms and Signs

The skin symptoms of lupus can vary in severity and appearance, but common characteristics include:

  1. Red, scaly rashes: Often appearing on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, neck, and hands
  2. Butterfly-shaped rash: A distinctive rash that spreads across the cheeks and bridge of the nose
  3. Skin lesions: Patches of lighter and darker pigment on the skin, which can leave permanent scars
  4. Photosensitivity: Skin symptoms worsen with UV light exposure
  5. Hair loss: Related to scarring on the scalp
  6. Mouth sores: Sores inside the mouth, nose, or elsewhere

Cause and Diagnosis

The exact cause of lupus is still unknown, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Risk factors include having a family history of lupus, being female, and having African American heritage.
Diagnosing lupus can be challenging, as the symptoms can resemble those of other conditions. A dermatologist will typically:

  1. Take a medical history
  2. Conduct a physical examination
  3. Perform laboratory tests, such as a skin biopsy and blood tests.

    4. There are clinical and laboratory criteria set out in international guidelines for the diagnosis of lupus.

Treatment

While there is no cure for lupus, various treatment options can help manage the symptoms and prevent flares. These include:

  1. Sun protection: Avoiding UV light exposure, wearing sun-protective clothing, and using sunscreen
  2. Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding stress, getting regular exercise, and eating a healthy diet
  3. Topical medications: Creams, ointments, and lotions applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms
  4. Systemic medications: These can help reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent flares. They include corticosteroids, antimalarials and immunomodulators

Conclusion

It’s essential to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account the severity and impact of lupus on daily life. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to manage lupus symptoms and improve quality of life.

References

  1. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
  2. British Journal of Dermatology

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