Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Dermoscopy Aids in the Diagnosis of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus
Published on: May 16, 2025
Association between discoid lupus erythematosus and cigarette smoking
Hélio Amante Miot1, Luciane Donida Bartoli Miot, Gabriela Roncada Haddad
1Dermatology Department, UNESP Medical School, Botucatu, Brazil. heliomiot@uol.com.br
Background:
Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic cutaneous disease affecting photoexposed areas and has also been associated with cigarette smoking.
Objective:
To evaluate the association between smoking and DLE.
Methods:
A case-control study was performed involving 57 cases diagnosed with DLE and 215 healthy controls.
Results:
A higher smoking prevalence was noted in DLE cases (84.2%) than controls (33.5%), and the odds ratio adjusted for gender, age and ultraviolet index in the city of origin was 14.4 (95% confidence interval 6.2-33.8; multiple logistic regression, p < 0.01). The cumulative smoking exposure was not related to premature DLE development. At the beginning of the disease, smokers had more extensive involvement than nonsmokers; compromise of the upper arms was statistically related to smoking.
Conclusion:
Cigarette smoking was statistically associated with DLE development. Other studies are needed in order to evaluate the effects of smoking cessation on the course of disease.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction

