Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a scarring, frequently photosensitive autoimmune disease. It has a characteristic clinical appearance consisting of red, scaly plaques with resulting pigmentary changes; the plaques are frequently found on the face and scalp.
In a large series, about 5% of patients with DLE had lesions starting in childhood. Cases have been reported in several ethnic groups, although there are less than 50 cases in the literature. A minority of patients have developed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but follow-up time has usually been limited.
Trichophyton tonsurans infection of the scalp (tinea capitis) – Can be very inflammatory and should be ruled out. A rare dermatophyte infection causes favus, which has an associated scarring alopecia.
Below is a list of drugs with literature evidence indicating an adverse association with this diagnosis. The list is continually updated through ongoing research and new medication approvals. Click on Citations to sort by number of citations or click on Medication to sort the medications alphabetically.
An atrophic, scarred, pink plaque with raised borders on the lower forehead and eyebrow. Note the permanent loss of eyebrow hairs within the scarred area.
Patient Information for 