Discoid Lupus Erythematosus : Clinical Features

Comments:
Clinical Features of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE): Lesions arise on the sun-exposed areas of the body and there may be photosensitivity. Lesions may exacerbate during spring and summer seasons. Most of the lesions are in the head and neck region in the localized form of DLE. In the generalized form, there is involvement of dorsal aspects of arms, hands, fingers, and non-exposed areas such as trunk, upper limbs, palms, and soles.

Skin lesions consist of plaques on cheeks, the bridge of the nose, ears, neck, and scalp. Scalp lesions heal with atrophic scarring, permanent alopecia, and there may be depigmentation in dark-skinned individuals which can be disfiguring. Scalp involvement is usually a sign of long-standing severe disease.

Early lesions of DLE appear as erythematous and edematous areas. The established plaque lesions are firm, erythematous areas covered with scales and can reach several centimeters in size. Keratin plugs are often seen attached to the undersurface when scales are removed. Over time, the lesions heal with scarring which can cause disfigurement.