Lupus Tumidus Is a Distinct Entity

I have argued that “lupus erythematosus tumidus (LET)” is likely misnamed and certainly misclassified with the specific cutaneous lesions of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (Arch Dermatol 2009; 145:316). This stance has recently been challenged.

LET is exacerbated by light, and the lesions are reproducible with phototesting. These erythematous to violaceous papules and plaques are photodistributed without surface change and resolve without residual scarring or atrophy. Biopsy samples display extensive mucin but rarely demonstrate interface dermatitis — the characteristic finding of most LE-specific skin lesions. The prevalence of LET is debated in the literature.

Among 44 patients with cutaneous LE seen at two German academic departments during…