Non-specific cutaneous lupus erythematosus and clinical significance: a literature review.

Abstract

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is classified into LE-specific cutaneous lesions and LE-non-specific cutaneous lesions. LE-specific lesions, which include acute cutaneous LE, sub-acute cutaneous LE, and chronic cutaneous LE have been well-described and studied regarding their association with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and disease activity. Non-specific CLE is divided into thrombogenic (vascular), neutrophilic, or uncertain pathogenesis. Some features such as Raynaud, vasculitis, and alopecia have been well-documented with reported association with other clinical features of SLE and its disease activity. Still, some are under-recognized and not well-studied for their correlation with SLE disease activity, or clinical significance concerning SLE. This review aims to encompass each non-specific CLE and its clinical relevance in SLE. However, the literature was limited in many non-specific LE conditions with the lack of statistical evidence to prove its correlation to SLE or other signs and symptoms of SLE, including morbidity and mortality. Future research can provide predictions of the disease based on non-specific CLE.