Definition:

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is the skin-related form of lupus erythematosus (LE), with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations and a variable course. CLE is a frequent finding in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and can also exist as a single entity without associated systemic autoimmunity (LE-specific skin disease). Despite ongoing research into the cause of CLE, it remains unclear how CLE relates to SLE pathogenesis. LE-specific skin disease includes the subtypes of CLE such as acute cutaneous LE (ACLE), subacute cutaneous LE (SCLE), chronic cutaneous LE (CCLE), and intermittent CLE (ICLE). ACLE is characterized by malar rash or maculopapular eruption on sun exposed areas. SCLE characteristically presents as annular or psoriasiform plaques in a photo distribution. CCLE can be further divided into discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), LE profundus (LEP), chilblain LE (CLE), and LE tumidus (LET). The pathogenesis of CLE is multifactorial and involves genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and abnormalities in the immune response. It has been reported that many genetic risk factors for CLE involve HLA or interferon-related pathways. Corticosteroids and antimalarials were considered as the most suitable and effective systemic drugs for CLE patients.