The sequelae of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus

Eighty-six patients with chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus were examined. Twelve of these also suffered from systemic lupus erythematosus. The mean duration of the disease was 15.1 years. Fifty-seven percent of patients (49/86) had scarring of some kind producing destruction and deformity; 47% (41/86) had scarring of glabrous surfaces and 35% (30/86) had scarring alopecia; 35% (30/86) were also suffering from pigmentary disturbance. The details and treatment of these and other non-scarring sequelae are discussed.