Discoid lupus erythematosus in Adult
See also in: External and Internal Eye,Hair and ScalpAlerts and Notices
Synopsis

Discoid rash is one of the 11 diagnostic criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and 20% of patients with SLE will manifest discoid lesions. However, only 5%-10% of patients with DLE demonstrate systemic involvement or will go on to develop SLE. Risk factors for the development of SLE include widespread DLE, arthralgias ⁄ arthritis, nail changes, anemia, leukopenia, an elevated ESR, and a positive test for antinuclear antibodies (ANA).
Squamous cell carcinoma may rarely develop in chronic DLE scars, especially in sun-exposed areas.
Related topics: Tumid lupus erythematosus, Lupus panniculitis, Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, Drug-induced lupus erythematosus
Codes
ICD10CM:L93.0 – Discoid lupus erythematosus
SNOMEDCT:
200938002 – Discoid lupus erythematosus
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Sarcoidosis
- Granuloma faciale
- Lichen planus
- DLE lesions have been associated with chronic granulomatous disease. In familial cases, check for complement deficiency.
- Other forms of scarring alopecia, such as tinea capitis, lichen planopilaris, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
- Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus
- Rosacea
- Dermatomyositis
- A single plaque in a lighter skin phototype may be mistaken for squamous cell cancer or squamous cell cancer in situ.
Best Tests
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Management Pearls
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Therapy
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Drug Reaction Data
Below is a list of drugs with literature evidence indicating an adverse association with this diagnosis. The list is continually updated through ongoing research and new medication approvals. Click on Citations to sort by number of citations or click on Medication to sort the medications alphabetically.Subscription Required
References
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Last Reviewed:10/14/2018
Last Updated:11/06/2018
Last Updated:11/06/2018
Discoid lupus erythematosus in Adult
See also in: External and Internal Eye,Hair and Scalp