A Review of Cutaneous Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Clinical Practice

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex, multisystem autoimmune disorder characterized by a diverse array of clinical manifestations, with cutaneous symptoms being among the most common and impactful. This review aims to collate existing literature on the cutaneous manifestations of SLE, emphasizing their clinical relevance, diagnostic challenges, and implications for management in clinical practice. The cutaneous manifestations of SLE are varied, encompassing a spectrum of lesions that can significantly affect a patient's quality of life. Key cutaneous features include the classic butterfly rash, discoid lesions, photosensitivity, and mucosal ulcers, each associated with distinct pathophysiological mechanisms. The review categorizes these manifestations into acute, subacute, and chronic forms, providing a detailed analysis of their clinical characteristics, histopathological findings, and associated systemic features. Furthermore, the review examines the role of environmental factors, genetic predispositions, and immunological pathways in the development of skin lesions in SLE patients. It highlights the importance of recognizing these manifestations early, as they can serve as initial indicators of systemic involvement and disease flares. The interplay between cutaneous symptoms and systemic disease activity is explored, illustrating how skin findings can inform broader clinical assessments and treatment strategies. In addition to clinical presentation, this review discusses the diagnostic modalities used to evaluate cutaneous manifestations, including dermoscopy and skin biopsy, which aid in differentiating SLE from other dermatological conditions. Management strategies, ranging from topical therapies to systemic immunosuppressive agents, are reviewed, underscoring the need for a tailored approach that considers individual patient factors and disease severity. By synthesizing current knowledge on the cutaneous aspects of SLE, this review provides clinicians with enhanced insights into the dermatological dimensions of the disease. It advocates for a multidisciplinary approach to care, integrating dermatologists, rheumatologists, and primary care providers in the management of SLE. The findings underscore the importance of ongoing research to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms of cutaneous manifestations and to develop innovative therapeutic strategies. In conclusion, a thorough understanding of the cutaneous manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus is essential for effective clinical practice. Recognizing these manifestations not only aids in the early diagnosis of SLE but also enhances the overall management of this complex disease, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This review serves as a comprehensive resource for clinicians seeking to deepen their understanding of the dermatological features of SLE and their implications for patient care.