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Lupus Skin Problems

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease which can affect many parts of the body. Skin problems are common, and depend on which type of lupus an individual has. Most lupus skin problems do not leave scars. A general recommendation is to avoid exposure to sun.

  1. Butterfly Rash

    • In the systemic form of lupus, a red rash occurs on the bridge of a person's nose and the cheeks. It is called a "butterfly rash," and tends to disappear and reoccur.

    Scaly Patches

    • Discoid lupus, which usually only affects skin, causes thick, scaly, itchy patches anywhere on the body. These patches tend to cause scars. Hair can be permanently lost when the patches affect the scalp.

    Sun Issues

    • Another rash usually affects sun-exposed body areas, and appears as large scaly patches which eventually heal. This rash occurs in subacute cutaneous lupus, which is not as severe as the systemic form.

    Vasculitis

    • Inflamed blood vessels, called vasculitis, can break and cause bleeding under the skin, creating tiny purple spots on skin, or larger spots which look like bruises.

    Urticaria

    • Urticaria can occur, resulting in an itchy raised rash which eventually heals.

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