[Cutaneous manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus and coexisting dermatologic conditions]

To analyze the clinical heterogeneity of cutaneous manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and the features of coexisting dermatologic conditions in these patients.

The single-center cross-sectional study included 210 patients with SLE followed at Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology. Clinical, laboratory, and instrumental parameters were assessed, including disease activity (SLEDAI-2K [Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000], SLE-DAS [Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Score]), organ damage (Damage Index of SLICC/ACR [Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics / American College of Rheumatology]), and cutaneous manifestations using the CLASI (Cutaneous Lupus Disease Area and Severity Index), R-CLASI (Revised Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Areas and Severity Index), and the mucocutaneous domain of Easy-BILAG (Easy British Isles Lupus Assessment Group). Coexisting dermatologic conditions and skin changes not directly related to SLE activity were additionally analyzed.

Cutaneous and mucosal involvement was observed in 85% of patients during the disease course and represented one of the most frequent manifestations at SLE onset. At study inclusion, active mucocutaneous manifestations were present in 50% of patients. Cutaneous involvement was characterized by marked clinical heterogeneity and a high prevalence of overlapping phenotypes, including acute and chronic cutaneous lupus, mucosal lesions, and non-scarring alopecia. Active cutaneous involvement was associated with serositis and hemolytic anemia. Coexisting dermatologic conditions, including treatment-related skin complications, were identified in 70% of patients.

Cutaneous and mucosal manifestations in SLE constitute a complex, multicomponent disease phenotype reflecting both systemic inflammatory activity and processes of chronicity and damage accumulation. The high prevalence of overlapping cutaneous phenotypes and coexisting dermatologic conditions underscores the need for comprehensive skin assessment and a multidisciplinary approach to the management of patients with SLE.