
Diagnosis: Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE)
Findings:
- Erythema, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, scarring and scaling can be seen together
- Most commonly affects the upper body, especially in sun-exposed areas
- Can lead to hair loss such as in the scalp
Key teaching points:
- Can be triggered by exposure to sunlight
- Smoking can exacerbate this condition
- Treatment includes strict sun protection, and may include topical treatments such as corticosteroids, and systemic immunosuppressants and immunomodulators
Credit: Case submitted by dermatologist Dr. Azeem Alam Khan to dermRounds Dermatology Network