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Lupus Skin Disease

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can effect and cause damage to any part of the body. Lupus can be mild or severe and sometimes its symptoms can last for a few weeks or for years at at time. The exact cause is unknown, but heredity seems to play a part.

  1. Autoimmune disease

    • In lupus, the immune system does not fight off antibodies like it should. This can cause bacteria and foreign substances to attack the body and destroy healthy tissue.

    Cutaneous Lupus

    • There are actually four types of lupus. Cutaneous lupus affects only the skin, not the internal organs. There are many rashes that accompany cutaneous lupus but the most common is a red, raised and scaly rash. It does not itch.

    Rashes

    • Discoid rashes often occur in cutaneous lupus. The areas of the rash are shaped like discs. The butterfly rash is another common lupus skin rash and it is a red raised rash the extends over the cheeks and nose.

    The Face, Neck and Other Areas

    • Other rashes may also erupt on the face, the scalp, the vagina, in the mouth, in the nose or on the neck. Hair loss and changes in the color of the skin are symptoms.

    Significance

    • More than 1.5 million people in America suffer from lupus and 5 million people worldwide have the disease. Women between the ages of 15 and 44 are most likely to get lupus, but men and children also can develop the disease. Women of color are two to three times more likely to get the disease.

    Prevention/Solution

    • People with lupus skin disease must avoid sunshine during the brightest part of the day and always wear sunscreen. They should limit exposure to fluorescent lights and wear protective clothing and broad-rimmed hats.

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