Treatment, consisting of partial or complete extirpation, is rarely permanent in its results, the disease tending to recur.
Lupus Erythematosus.
(Synonyms: Lupus Erythematodes; Lupus Sebaceus; Seborrhœa Congestiva.)
What is lupus erythematosus?
Lupus erythematosus may be roughly defined as a mildly to moderately inflammatory superficial new-growth formation, characterized by one, several, or more circumscribed, variously sized and shaped, pinkish or dark red patches, covered slightly, and more or less irregularly, with adherent grayish or yellowish scales.
Upon what parts is lupus erythematosus observed?
Its common site is the face, usually the nose and cheeks, with a tendency toward symmetry; it is often limited to these parts, but may occasionally be seen upon other regions, more especially the lips, ears, and scalp. In rare instances a great part of the general surface may become involved.
Describe the symptoms of lupus erythematosus.
Usually the disease begins as one or several rounded, circumscribed, pin-head- to pea-sized lesions; slightly scaly, somewhat elevated, and of a pinkish, reddish or violaceous color. They slowly, or somewhat rapidly, increase in area, and after attaining variable size remain stationary; or they may progress and coalesce, and in this manner sooner or later involve considerable surface. The patches are sharply defined against the sound skin by an elevated border, while the central portion is somewhat depressed and usually atrophic. More or less thickening and infiltration are observed. There is no tendency to ulceration. The scaliness is, as a rule, scanty. The gland-ducts are enlarged, patulous or plugged with sebaceous and epithelial matter.
The subjective symptoms of burning and itching are usually slight and often wanting.