Lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Lupus erythematosus (LE) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by high clinical heterogeneity and a variable course. In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), there is the possibility of the development of life-threatening involvement of multiple organs that can affect the skin, musculosceletal system, kidneys, and cardiovascular and central nervous systems. The disease can also be limited to the skin, and is then called cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE). Together with an (immune) genetic background, various environmental factors, such as smoking, medication, hormones, infections, and above all ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to an initial manifestation or exacerbation of the disease. New findings on the pathogenesis of CLE have also led to further therapeutic options for this autoimmune disease.