Acute cutaneous lupus erythematosus

Acute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (ACLE) is a form of Lupus Erythematosus that primarily affects the skin. It is one of the subsets of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE), which itself is a category of Lupus Erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune disease. ACLE is characterized by the appearance of distinctive skin lesions that generally occur in areas exposed to sunlight. This condition is closely associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a more severe form of lupus that can affect any part of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs.

Symptoms

The hallmark of ACLE is the development of skin lesions, particularly the malar rash, also known as the butterfly rash due to its unique shape across the cheeks and nose. These lesions are typically red, raised, and may be painful or itchy. Unlike discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), another form of CLE, the lesions associated with ACLE usually do not lead to scarring or permanent hair loss, although they may cause temporary discoloration of the skin.

Causes and Risk Factors

ACLE, like other forms of lupus, is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and possibly hormonal factors that lead to an abnormal immune response. Sun exposure is a well-known trigger for the skin lesions seen in ACLE. Certain medications and infections can also precipitate or exacerbate this condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ACLE involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, focusing on the characteristic skin lesions. Laboratory tests, including antinuclear antibody (ANA) tests, are also crucial for diagnosing lupus. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment of ACLE primarily aims to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. This may include the use of topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and skin lesions. Antimalarial drugs, such as hydroxychloroquine, are also commonly used due to their effectiveness in treating skin and joint symptoms of lupus. In more severe cases, systemic corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications may be required.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with ACLE is generally good, especially when the condition is diagnosed early and treated effectively. However, since ACLE is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, monitoring for the development of systemic involvement is essential.

See Also

• Lupus Erythematosus
• Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
• Discoid Lupus Erythematosus