Lupus erythematosus tumidus

Definition

A rare form of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus characterized by extreme photosensitivity with intermittent formation of erythematous, edematous, urticarial-like, smooth plaques on sun-exposed skin areas. The lesions heal without scarring. The course of the disease is benign, and development of systemic lupus erythematosus is infrequent. Most patients do not have lupus-related autoantibodies. Skin biopsy shows a perivascular and periadnexal lymphocytic infiltrate and increased dermal mucin deposition without involvement of the dermoepidermal junction.