lupus, discoid

lupus, discoid A chronic inflammatory condition that is limited to the skin and is caused by an autoimmune disease. Up to 10 percent of persons with discoid lupus eventually develop systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Heredity, viruses, ultraviolet light, and drugs may also be involved. Skin symptoms associated with discoid lupus include patchy redness with areas of hyper- and hypopigmentation that can cause scarring; and photosensitivity, or skin rash in reaction to exposure to sunlight. Diagnosis of discoid lupus may be made via medical history and antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing. Treatment is directed toward decreasing inflammation and/or the level of autoimmune activity. Treatment methods include avoidance of sun exposure and use of antimalarial medications (hydroxychloroquine and others), local cortisone injections, Dapsone, and immune-suppression medications. See also lupus; lupus erythematosis, systemic.