Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Genital Skin: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.
Ala' Abu-Dayeh, Daniel Miller, Alessio Giubellino
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 60-year-old female with a history of systemic sclerosis presented with erythematous, keratotic plaques in the inguinal creases and medial buttocks, accompanied by pruritus and pain when sitting. The lesions had persisted for years, leading to differential diagnoses including lichen sclerosus and psoriasis. Histopathology revealed features consistent with discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), and the patient was treated with topical corticosteroids.
What made this case unusual
This case is notable for the presentation of discoid lupus erythematosus in genital skin, an area rarely affected and often confused with other dermatoses.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider discoid lupus erythematosus in the differential diagnosis of chronic genital dermatoses, especially when typical lesions are present.
Why it matters
This case underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by genital skin involvement in autoimmune conditions and the critical role of histopathologic evaluation.