Cutaneous Neonatal Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

Abstract

Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is a rare autoimmune entity observed in infants born to mothers with autoantibodies against Ro/SSA and La/SSB. Neonatal lupus may present with rash, heart block, hepatic dysfunction, and cytopenia. Although the condition is usually self-limited, serious sequelae can occur. We present the case of a three-month-old infant who developed multiple erythematous, annular cutaneous lesions at six weeks of age who was ultimately diagnosed with NLE. This case highlights the importance of considering neonatal lupus erythematosus in infants with rashes in the first few months of life. In our case, clinical suspicion and laboratory evaluation helped confirm the diagnosis and facilitate appropriate treatment.