Lupus is a chronic disease. Lupus rash symptom affects a wide range of people, which involves abnormal activity of the immune system. The dysfunctional immune system produces antinuclear antibodies that turn against the healthy body cells and tissues. The abnormal activity of the immune system can lead to various internal disorders like heart disease, pulmonary disease, kidney disease, disorders of the musculoskeletal system, disorders of the nervous system and skin diseases such as lupus rash and erythematous lesions.

Lupus rash, commonly known as butterfly rash, basically tends to appear on the face. It also appears in some of the body parts like skin, joints, and other internal organ. It is also referred to as an autoimmune disease. Lupus rash is common in most of the people between the ages of 10 to 50 years. Statistics show that the risk of developing lupus disease in women is more as compared to men. It is also referred to as a disorder of the skin due to lupus disease.

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Types of skin lupus

Skin lupus is categorized into three parts, which are as follows:

1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) - It is a disorder that involves the problem with the patient’s immune system. It is common in women and can also lead to death. The symptom of systemic lupus erythematosus is joint pain with swelling.
2. Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) - It is a chronic disorder that is characterized by inflammation on the facial area. This inflammation can be developed as red patches with crusty appearance. This type of skin lupus can result into scarring and hair loss.
3. Drug-Induced Lupus – This type of skin lupus is very similar to Systemic Lupus. It is caused by chronic use of certain medicines, which makes the body to attack its own cell and tissue. The symptoms include joint pain, fatigue, inflammation of the lungs and heart.

Symptoms of lupus rash

The symptoms of lupus rash vary from person to person. It may be from mild to severe or may even come and go over time. There are several signs and symptoms of lupus rash which is given below.

• Red rashes
• Muscle pain
• Mouth ulcer
• Swollen glands
• Severe fatigue
• Unexplained fever
• Painful or swollen joints
• Unusual loss of hair
• Chest pain upon deep breathing
• Pale fingers or toes
• Sensitivity to the sun
• Swelling in legs
• Dark circle around eyes
• Blood in urine
• Skin color is patchy
• Numbness and tingling
• Abdominal pain
• Visual disturbance

Causes of lupus rash

Up till now, the exact cause of lupus rash is yet unknown. In majority of the patients, a genetic factor plays an important role in causing lupus rash. But in some of the patients, there is no genetic factor present at all. Considering the facts, it was concluded that the cause of lupus rash is the combination of hereditary as well as environmental factors.

Treatment of lupus rash

Treatment of lupus rash is essential to avoid severe complications. There are some of the treatments for lupus rash, which are as follows:

• Apply ointment and creams containing steroids over the infected areas
• Apply hydrocortisone for mild lupus rash and strong betamethasone for severe lupus rash
• Use of oral medication like antimalarial, slow acting drugs, etc
• Take steroidal injection as prescribed by the physician

Lupus rash commonly occurs on the parts of the body that are exposed to sunlight such as scalp, face, neck and shoulders. However, the lupus rash can also occur in other areas of the body like chest, back, palms and feet. In many cases, skin lesions accompany it. It occurs on the face, with an appearance of reddish, burn-like effect. Sometimes this rash can also affect the moist tissues around the mouth and the nose. It is therefore recommended to visit the doctor if any symptoms of lupus rash are observed. The medication will give proper relief to the patient.

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