Lupus Erythematosus Profundus:Clinical and Histopathological Study

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Lupus erythematosus profundus (LEP) is an unusual clinical variant of lupus erythematosus (LE). It is unclear which part LEP occupied in the disease spectrum of LE. OBJECTIVE: Clinical and histopathological studies were performed on 19 patients with LEP in order to further define the clinical patterns, know the various serological findings, and review the histopathological features. METHODS: A retrospective review was carried out of the clinical records and histopathological specimens of 19 patients with LEP. RESULTS: The most common clinical features were indurated nodules or plaques on the cheek. There was a 37% positivity in the ANA test. Histopathogically epidermal changes as well as subcutaneous involvements were common. There were no cases of newly developed SLE during the follow up period of 41 months. CONCLUSION: Most patients with LEP have a relatively benign disease course, although a few develop systemic abnormalities and have abnormal laboratory findings.