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Updated: Apr 14, 2026

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Skin Biopsy for Diagnosing Discoid Lupus Erythematosus
Published on: June 10, 2025
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[Systemic lupus erythmatosus and panniculitis presenting as multiple ulcers: one case report]
1Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China.
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can cause painful skin ulcers. Aggressive treatment with high-dose prednisone, cyclophosphamide, and hydroxychloroquine is effective for healing severe SLE-related skin manifestations.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Patients may experience various mucocutaneous manifestations.
- Cutaneous ulcers can be a debilitating complication of active SLE.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old woman with an 8-year history of SLE presented with painful, enlarging skin ulcers.
- Initial treatment with antibiotics and moderate-dose prednisone was ineffective.
- Biopsy revealed epidermal necrosis, vasculitis, and inflammatory infiltrates.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited active SLE with leukopenia, proteinuria, positive anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies, and hypocomplementemia.
- Despite initial treatment, skin ulcers persisted.
- High-dose prednisone (120 mg/d) combined with cyclophosphamide and hydroxychloroquine led to gradual ulcer healing.
Implications:
- Aggressive immunosuppressive therapy is crucial for managing severe cutaneous manifestations in SLE.
- This case highlights the importance of adjusting SLE treatment based on clinical response.
- Effective management of SLE-induced ulcers can significantly improve patient quality of life.
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