Bullous Systemic Lupus Erythematosus as an Initial Manifestation of SLE

Bullous systemic lupus erythematosus (BSLE) is a rare subset of systemic lupus erythematosus that is often associated with autoimmunity to type VII collagen. We describe a 45-year-old woman with BSLE who presented with vesiculobullous lesions as an initial manifestation of SLE. The patient first noticed a widespread urticarial, erythematous eruption associated with tense blisters, erosions, and crusting. She was diagnosed with bullous pemphigoid and underwent a one-month course of treatment with betamethazone. Because of the appearance of marked proteinuria, a subsequent renal biopsy, and serological tests, the patient was diagnosed with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The patient's IgG circulating antibodies labeled the dermal floor of salt-split skin and recognized type VII collagen in immunoblot studies. Although methylprednisolone pulse therapy for glomerulonephritis did not alleviate the vesicullobullous eruption, treatment with dapsone resulted in dramatic disappearance of the lesions. Cessation of dapsone therapy due to hemolysis with Heinz-body formation did not aggravate the bullous disease. Our case illustrates that a generalized vesiculobullous eruption can be the sole presenting manifestation of SLE. It also emphasizes the close temporal relationship between BSLE and lupus nephritis.

ITP as an Initial Manifestation of Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is an entity characterized by widespread polycyclic lesions that heal without scarring. Skin lesions with marked ultraviolet sensitivity are distributed in an annular and/or psoriasiform configuration. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, which is an autoimmune disease (ITP), is mediated by a destructive immunoglobulin G antibody response to the platelets' membrane components. We report a case of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus initially manifested as thrombocytopenia, which was diagnosed as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and treated with splenectomy. Seven months later, development of cutaneous involvement followed the diagnosis of ITP. The clinical and histological features of the lesions were compatible with SCLE. Serological evaluations showed a negative anti-nuclear antibody test and an elevated anti-SSB/La antibody level. Symptoms for systemic involvement were negative. Although the clinical features such as photosensitivity, discoid rash, and thrombocytopenia were in favor of SLE, the patient did not fulfill the criteria of the American Rheumatism Association (ARA) for SLE.

Drug-induced lupus erythematosus

Drug-induced lupus erythematosus (DI-LE) is defined as an entity characterized by clinical manifestations and immunopathological serum findings similar to those of idiopathic lupus but which is temporally related to drug exposure and resolves after withdrawal of the implicated drug. Similarly to idiopathic lupus, DI-LE can be divided into systemic LE, subacute cutaneous LE (SCLE), chronic cutaneous LE (CCLE) and cutaneous LE tumidus. DI-SCLE is the most frequent variant of drug-induced cutaneous LE and presents mainly with annular-polycyclic lesions; the clinical picture is often widespread, with involvement of the lower legs that are usually spared in idiopathic SCLE. ANA and anti-Ro/SSA antibodies are typically present, whereas antihistone antibodies are uncommonly found. We have recently addressed the question whether DI-SCLE differs significantly from its idiopathic counterpart by virtue of clinical features and, based on our findings, we have suggested that the frequent occurrence of malar rash and bullous, erythema multiforme-like and vasculitic manifestations can be regarded as the hallmark of DI-SCLE. In contrast, the histology is not a useful diagnostic criterion for DI-SCLE, considering that the typical pattern of lichenoid interface dermatitis is seen only in the early stage of disease and tissue eosinophilia does not represent a differentiating histopathological feature. DI-CCLE and DI-LE tumidus, albeit possibly misdiagnosed, are rarely observed and are characterized by classic discoid lesions and erythematous-oedematous plaques on sun exposed areas, respectively. Management of DI-LE is based on the discontinuation of the offending drug; topical and/or systemic corticosteroids and other immunomodulating/immunosuppressive agents should be reserved for resistant cases.

Possible progression of subacute lupus erythematosus--case report

Subacute lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a specific form of lupus erythematosus characterized by prevalently cutaneous manifestations usually with a good prognosis. It is more common in patients aged 15 to 70 years, and there is a female predilection. This form accounts for 10% of all lupus erythematosus cases. We present the case of a 57-year-old male patient diagnosed at age 35 with chronic psoriasiform subacute lupus erythematosus, pathologically confirmed at the Iaşi Dermatology Clinic. At the age of 54 years he had multiple ischemic strokes, followed by deterioration of general status, and at 56 years deep vein thrombosis in the right leg. The patient presented the erythematous-squamous lesions specific to psoriasiform SLE localized both on the upper third of the body and knees and associated with submucosal lesions of the lower lip, oral mucosa and appendages. The patient also presented hypo- and hyperpigmentated atrophic scar-like lesions. Laboratory tests performed during the last two admissions showed the presence of anti-ds DNA and antiphospholipid antibodies, inflammatory syndrome, and nitrogen retention syndrome. Treatment consisted of systemic and local dermatocorticoids and associated medication, emollient lotions and creams with SPF 50+, with slowly favorable progression. The peculiarity of the case lies in the chronic progression without significant systemic involvement for 19 years, and then in 2 years the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and a shift to systemic lupus erythematosus to occur.

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis induced by hydroxychloroquine: first case report in Canada and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare drug eruption presenting with an acute, extensive formation of nonfollicular sterile pustules on an erythematous and edematous base. Typically, the rash is accompanied by fever and leukocytosis, with spontaneous resolution in < 15 days. The incidence of AGEP is estimated at one to five cases per million people per year. Only 18% of these are from nonantibiotics. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an antimalarial agent that is also used to treat various dermatologic and rheumatologic conditions.

OBJECTIVE

We report the first observation in Canada of a patient with AGEP induced by HCQ.

METHODS AND RESULTS

AGEP was diagnosed in a 48-year-old female who had been taking HCQ for 2 weeks and then developed a diffuse erythematous and edematous pustular eruption. Clinical and pathologic findings were consistent with a diagnosis of AGEP. The patient was treated with steroids and supportive measures. The rash resolved after 18 days and a complicated course in hospital.

CONCLUSION

AGEP is a rare drug eruption, usually to antibiotics. We report the first case in Canada of AGEP as an adverse reaction to HCQ. Clinicians should keep in mind the possibility of this severe skin eruption.

Effects of mycophenolate mofetil on cutaneous lupus erythematosus in (NZB × NZW) F1 mice

BACKGROUND

Few studies have evaluated the effects and precise molecular mechanism of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in the treatment of human cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE). Our findings shed light on the therapeutic effects of MMF in a UVB-induced NZB × NZW (NZBW) F1 CLE mouse model.

METHODS

Continuous MMF treatment (60 mg/kg/day) was administered up to Day 50 from the beginning of UVB induction (Day 0; 20 weeks old), as the pathologic features of CLE are present after 50 days. The therapeutic effects of MMF treatment in NZBW lupus mice were examined by comparing histopathological changes, lupus band test (deposition of immune complexes at the dermal-epidermal junction) and colocalization of autoantibodies with a dermal autoantigen Dsg3, and by evaluating the associations of local matrix metalloprotease activities.

RESULTS

MMF improved survival in the NZBW lupus mice from 35.7% to 81.8%. The proteinuria, blood urea nitrogen, and interleukin 6 levels were significantly reduced after MMF treatment. The dermal lymphocytic infiltration, deposition of immune complexes at the dermal-epidermal junction, colocalized autoantibodies with Dsg3, and epidermal matrix metalloprotease activity were also attenuated in MMF-treated NZBW F1 mice.

CONCLUSION

The results confirmed that MMF could substantially attenuate skin damage due to CLE in the NZBW F1 mouse model.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus in a patient undergoing intravitreal bevacizumab injections: case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Bevacizumab is a recombinant humanized antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for metastatic colorectal cancer, advanced non-small cell lung cancer, metastatic renal cell cancer and glioblastoma. Bevacizumab has also been used off label in ophthalmology for age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, retinopathy of prematurity, and other chorioretinal vascular disorders. Numerous case reports have described various cutaneous reactions in response to bevacizumab therapy including acneiform eruptions and exfoliative dermatitis.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 63 year-old Caucasian female who presented with subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus six weeks after initiating two intravitreal injections of bevacizumab for central serous choroidopathy.

CONCLUSION

We report the first documented case of a cutaneous lupus erythematosus eruption following bevacizumab administration as a monotherapy.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus: diagnosis and treatment

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) encompasses a wide range of dermatologic manifestations, which may or may not be associated with the development of systemic disease. Cutaneous lupus is divided into several sub-types, including acute CLE (ACLE), sub-acute CLE (SCLE) and chronic CLE (CCLE). CCLE includes discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), LE profundus (LEP), chilblain cutaneous lupus and lupus tumidus. The diagnosis of these diseases requires proper classification of the sub-type, through a combination of physical examination, laboratory studies, histology, antibody serology and occasionally direct immunofluorescence, while ensuring to exclude systemic disease. The treatment of cutaneous lupus consists of patient education on proper sun protection along with appropriate topical and systemic agents. Systemic agents are indicated in cases of widespread, scarring or treatment-refractory disease. In this chapter, we discuss issues in classification and diagnosis of the various sub-types of CLE, as well as provide an update on therapeutic management.

Treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus - 2013 update

This 2013 update on the treatment of systemic lupus erythrematosus provides rationale for universal use of antimalarials even absent skin or joint manifestations, but chiefly focuses on the management options for refractory cutaneous, articular, and renal disease and current status of biologics; both FDA approved belimumab and off-label infliximab, rituximab, abatacept, and tociluzimab. A discussion of antiphospholipid syndrome secondary to lupus, specifically use of aspirin for asymptomatic patients, suggestions for catastrophic antibody syndrome, and potential roles for rituximab and eculizumab are provided. This review is a companion to an article published in this journal last year and in combination provides recommendations for standard care in routine cases of lupus as well as for the problematic, intractable patient.

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease with cutaneous presentation in a patient with subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus

We report the case of a 45-year-old female patient previously diagnosed with subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus who presented with a one-week history of fever, tender erythematous nodules on her limbs, and palpable lymphadenopathy. Two incisional biopsies showed histiocytic infiltrates with abundant nuclear debris in the dermis and at the dermosubcutaneous junction with absence of neutrophils, characteristic of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD). The dermatologic and dermopathologic details of KFD are very heterogeneous and yet poorly described. We have reviewed the literature regarding KFD cases reported with cutaneous involvement trying to assess the skin features of the KFD or histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis.

Vesico-bullous subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus--an uncommon entity successfully treated with dapsone and hydroxychloroquine

Vesico-bullous subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus is an uncommon and severe presentation. The authors report an exuberant case of vesico-bullous subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus successfully treated with dapsone and hydroxychloroquine.

The use of cyclosporine in dermatology

Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive drug that acts selectively on T-cells by inhibiting calcineurin phosphorylase. It has been used in dermatology since its approval for US Food and Drug Administration in 1997 for the use in psoriasis. While indicated only for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis, cyclosporine has also been used as an off-label drug for the treatment of various inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis, blistering disorders, and connective tissue diseases. In this article, we review the use of cyclosporine in dermatology.

Seasonal variations of systemic lupus erythematosus flares in southern France

OBJECTIVE

Exposure to sunlight is one of the environmental factors involved in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus. We investigated whether there is seasonal variation in the incidence of cutaneous and noncutaneous severe lupus flares in southern France.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed clinical and biological data from all SLE patients hospitalized for a flare of the disease during a two year period in our centre and collected corresponding meteorological data from the official website of MeteoFrance.

RESULTS

Forty one patients, mean age 36.7 ± 13.8 years, were included. Twenty-six patients (63.4%) had kidney biopsy performed, showing in all cases proliferative nephritis, associated with membranous nephritis in 9 (22%). We found a clear seasonal pattern for overall lupus flares with 39% of flares occurred in Spring. Among patients without any cutaneous involvement, this seasonal pattern was still observed (p=0.024). Patients under antimalarials presented flares significantly later in the sunny season than those without (respectively median in July versus May, p=0.044). There were strong positive correlations between occurrence of lupus flares and maximum temperature increase (ρ=0.87, p<0.001), minimum temperature increase (ρ=0.87, p<0.001), and duration of sunshine increase (ρ=0.78, p=0.003). These correlations were also observed in patients with renal flares.

CONCLUSION

We confirmed a seasonal pattern for lupus flares among patients living in Southern France, with most flares in spring, in correlation with an increase in temperature and duration of sunshine. A similar seasonal pattern was observed in patients with no cutaneous involvement and with visceral involvement.

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus: a case report of Polypodium leucotomos as an adjuvant therapy

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is an uncommon autoimmune disease that results in substantial photosensitivity of affected patients. Eruptions often are triggered or exacerbated by UV light (UVL) exposure. We present a case of a patient with SCLE who was moderately controlled with hydroxychloroquine sulfate but achieved near total remission of disease after the addition of oral Polypodium leucotomos supplement which has photoprotective effects on human keratinocytes. We report sustained clinical response with the use of P leucotomos in lupus and suggest that it may have future application in photosensitizing dermatoses.

Verrucous (hypertrophic) cutaneous lupus erythematosus: a case report

Verrucous (Hypertrophic) lupus erythematosus (LE) represents a rare but distinct, variant of chronic discoid lupus erythematosus. We report a case of LE with verrucous lesions for its rarity and peculiar location posing a diagnostic dilemma.

Pigmented oral mucosa due to quinacrine

We describe the case of a 50-year-old woman with asymptomatic, irregularly outlined macule, dark in color on the hard palate. Antecedents include antimalarial medication for lupus erythematous subacute. After a histopathological study, differential diagnoses are presented.