lupus erythematosus tumidus

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Disease Overview

Tumid erythematosus lupus is considered a rare type of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) can be divided into acute cutaneous lupus, subacute cutaneous lupus, and chronic cutaneous lupus. Tumid erythematosus lupus is characterized by smooth, non-scarring, pink- to violet-colored pimples (papules)on the skin without any other apparent skin changes, such as scarring. Patients with tumid lupus erythematosus usually do not have other symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus or other types of cutaneous lupus erythematosus. The papules appear on sun-exposed areas of the face, upper back, V area of the neck, trunk, and arms, and more rarely on thighs and legs. They usually affect equally both sides of the body, but may affect only one side. Normally, the papules clear without leaving scars. The treatment is very effective in most cases, and may include sun protection, anti-malarials drugs, local corticosteroids, topical tacrolimus and light therapy.


Synonyms

  • LET
  • intermittent cutaneous lupus
  • let
  • tumid lupus erythematosus

GARD Disease Summary

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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Orphanet

Orphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.

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