Is the skin itchy in lupus erythematosus?
Disease description:
After developing lupus erythematosus, red patches appeared on my cheeks, becoming redder after sun exposure. Recently, I have constantly felt dryness and itching on the skin of my face and neck, with increased redness upon scratching. Is this indicative of disease activity? Is it normal?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
In general, the skin affected by lupus erythematosus may exhibit itching.
Lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease with diverse symptoms, including cutaneous manifestations. Skin lesions commonly occur on areas such as the cheeks, malar regions, and lips. They initially present as rashes, possibly accompanied by telangiectasia and grayish-brown adherent scales. These skin lesions may sometimes cause a sensation of itching.
In addition to skin lesions, patients may experience systemic symptoms such as gastrointestinal disturbances, irregular fever, joint pain, or arthritis. Skin itching may also be one of these systemic manifestations. However, not all patients with lupus erythematosus will experience itching alongside their skin symptoms, as this depends on individual variation and disease activity.
If you suspect you may have lupus erythematosus or are experiencing related symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention for diagnosis and treatment by a qualified physician. Treatment options may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressive agents, and topical therapies targeting skin symptoms to alleviate itching and other discomforts. Avoid self-diagnosis to prevent delays in proper treatment.
