SLE and DLE are two major types of lupus erythematosus. The pathogenesis of lupus erythematosus involves multiple systems and organs, with complex clinical manifestations and a protracted and recurrent course, resulting in an autoimmune disease. If timely treatment measures are not taken, it may pose a life-threatening risk to patients. Today, let's talk about the manifestations of discoid lupus erythematosus.

For a few patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, skin lesions are widespread, affecting the trunk and limbs in addition to the head and face. When the number of skin lesions is more than 6, it is called disseminated discoid lupus erythematosus. After the discoid lupus erythematosus lesions on the scalp improve, they may leave behind scars and hair loss that is difficult to regrow, known as pseudopelade. A few patients with skin lesions do not heal for years, and on the basis of chronic ulcers and scars, they may develop squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. Patients with discoid lupus erythematosus who have systemic symptoms such as fatigue and mild arthritis, and test positive for antinuclear antibodies in their blood, should actively seek specialized medical treatment, as 5% of discoid lupus erythematosus may ultimately transform into systemic lupus erythematosus.

Symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus:

1. Skin lesions are more common on the face, lips, ears, scalp, and dorsum of the hands.

2. The lesions are persistent discoid erythema with clear boundaries.

3. The surface is covered with tight scales that are difficult to remove. If the scales are forcefully removed, there may be cornification plugs underneath.

4. The center of the lesion shows atrophy and hypopigmentation, while the surrounding area shows darkening.

5. Fine red lines can be seen in the center of the lesion, indicating capillary dilation.

6. More than 80% of patients have skin damage, with a variety of erythema and rashes. Butterfly-shaped erythema on the cheeks and periungual erythema are characteristic manifestations of lupus erythematosus. The butterfly erythema does not extend beyond the nasolabial fold, but irregular erythema may also occur on the nose, forehead, and ears. Different types of erythema, such as discoid erythema, annular erythema, edematous erythema, and polymorphic erythema, may appear on the upper arms, elbows, dorsum of the hands, knuckles, dorsum of the feet, palms, and soles.

7. The shape of the punctate erythema is patchy with clear borders and a slightly raised but flat surface. There is cornified debris attached to it, and if wiped off, it may leave behind atrophic scars and slight depression.

8. The rash consists of red papules and plaques, which are generally not itchy or slightly itchy and can occur on various parts of the body, especially on the face, neck, and limbs. A few people may have blisters or blood blisters. After the erythema and blisters subside, epidermal atrophy, pigmentation, and keratosis may occur.

9. Photosensitivity, about 1/3 of patients develop facial flushing upon exposure to sunlight. Mainly sensitive to ultraviolet light, even in the shade in summer, facial redness may occur due to radiation. Some patients may develop sun-allergic rashes after exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Seek Medical Network tips: Avoid sun exposure, and use curtains when indoor sunlight is too strong. Avoid phototherapy, as well as phototoxic drugs and foods such as Gynura segetum and celery in Chinese medicine. When going out, use a parasol, wear a sun hat, long-sleeved shirt, and long skirt or pants. For those who use corticosteroids and immunosuppressants for a long time, be aware of the side effects and actively prevent and treat various viral and bacterial infections.