On the issue of diagnosing cutaneous forms of lupus erythematosus

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an autoimmune skin disease characterized by a variety of clinical manifestations and the possibility of progression to systemic lupus erythematosus.

Purpose. To study clinical and diagnostic features, as well as trigger factors of CLE to improve diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease progression.

Material and methods. A retrospective analysis of the medical records of 60 patients with CLE who were treated at the Moscow Scientific and Practical Center for Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology of the Moscow City Health Department in 2017–2023 was carried out.

Results. Discoid lupus erythematosus was detected in 90% of patients. In 51.67% of cases, an incorrect diagnosis was made at the prehospital stage, which led to untimely initiation of therapy. The diagnosis of CLE was pathomorphologically confirmed in 60% of patients, of which in 38.33% the clinical and pathological diagnoses coincided. The most common skin lesions were observed on the face (75%), scalp (50%) and upper extremities (46.67%). The main trigger factors were insolation (18.33%) and psycho-emotional stress (13.33%).

Conclusion. The study highlights the need for dermatologists and rheumatologists to work together to more effectively diagnose and treat CLE. It was revealed that a significant number of cases of CLE were incorrectly diagnosed at the prehospital stage, which led to untimely initiation of therapy. Pathological examination plays a key role in confirming the diagnosis and correctness of therapeutic measures. An integrated approach to the diagnosis and treatment of patients with CLE can significantly improve the quality of medical care and reduce the risk of disease progression and complications.