[Cutaneous lupus erythematosus following argon laser treatment]

It is well known that exposure to ultraviolet light can trigger lupus manifestations. Other light sources may have the same effect. We report a case of argon laser-induced lupus erythematosus.

A 59-year-old women developed an erythematous edematous infiltrated and sensitive lesion over the right cheek ten days after an argon laser treatment of the retina. The lesion spread towards the chin despite antibiotic treatment. Histology examination of a biopsy specimen and direct immunofluorescence suggested the diagnosis of cutaneous lupus erythematosus. The lesions regressed in one month with hydroxychloroquine (400 mg/d) treatment.

Our patient developed argon laser induced cutaneous lupus erythematosus. It is known that ultraviolet light and non-ultraviolet frequencies (x-rays, visible light) can induce lupus manifestations. One case of discoid lupus erythematosus after argon laser has been reported. In our case, due to a technical error the laser beam was directed onto the ipsilateral cheek during the laser treatment of the retina. The low-energy beams used in ophthalmology would explain the absence of local burn but would be sufficient to trigger lupus. This case demonstrates that argon laser, a visible blue or green beam, can provoke cutaneous lupus erythematosus even if there is no heat-induced burn. It is important to be aware of this adverse effect due to the widespread use of lasers in dermatology, particularly for the treatment of cutaneous lupus lesions.