Discoid Lupus Erythematosus Successfully Treated With Anifrolumab

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by scarring, dyspigmentation, and atrophy, most commonly affecting sun-exposed areas. Standard treatments such as corticosteroids, antimalarials, and immunosuppressants are often inadequate, and refractory cases can result in significant cosmetic and psychological morbidity. We present the case of a 27-year-old woman with recalcitrant DLE involving the face, scalp, arms, and hands. She failed to achieve symptomatic or cosmetic improvement with prednisone, hydroxychloroquine, or thalidomide. Due to persistent disease activity, she was initiated on anifrolumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the type I interferon receptor. Within two months, she reported marked improvement in symptoms, and physical examination showed residual hyperpigmented macules without new lesions. This case highlights the potential utility of anifrolumab as a targeted therapeutic option in DLE and underscores the need for further studies evaluating its long-term safety and efficacy in cutaneous lupus.