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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
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Skin Biopsy for Diagnosing Discoid Lupus Erythematosus
Published on: June 10, 2025
Drug-induced subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA. jefca@aol.com
Lupus
|August 10, 2010
Summary
Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is a distinct form of lupus affecting the skin. Drug-induced SCLE, first identified in 1985, has since been linked to over 40 medications.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is a specific subtype of cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
- SCLE presents with distinct immunologic and clinical characteristics.
- The condition was first described in 1985, associated with hydrochlorothiazide use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on drug-induced subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
- To highlight the diverse range of medications implicated in SCLE development.
- To underscore the importance of medication history in SCLE diagnosis and management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of case reports and studies on SCLE.
- Analysis of documented drug associations with SCLE onset.
- Clinical feature summarization of identified SCLE cases.
Main Results:
- Hydrochlorothiazide was the first identified causative agent in 1985.
- Over 40 different drugs have since been implicated in inducing SCLE.
- A wide array of drug classes are associated with SCLE development.
Conclusions:
- Medications are a significant trigger for subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
- Identifying and withdrawing causative drugs is crucial for SCLE treatment.
- Awareness of drug-induced SCLE is essential for healthcare providers.
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