Pulsed-Dye Lasers for Tumid Lupus

This effective treatment works quickly but does not prevent recurrence.

Tumid lupus is a form of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) characterized by erythematous to violaceous, nonscarring papules and plaques. Histologically, it is distinguished from other forms of CLE by the absence of epidermal change and lack of dermal epidermal junction involvement, but the presence of interstitial mucin and of a perivascular and periadnexal lymphocytic infiltrate. The most common treatments for tumid lupus are topical steroids and oral antimalarials. Resistant cases may require systemic immunosuppressive agents.

Investigators conducted this open-label, prospective study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pulsed-dye laser (PDL) treatments in 10 patients with histologically confirmed tumid lupus. These patients did not f…

Reviewing Author

Craig A. Elmets, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Astellas Pharmaceuticals

EquityVaxin

Grant / Research support NIH; NIH/NCI; Veteran’s Administration; Ferndale Laboratories; Kyowa Hakko Kirin Pharma, Inc.

Editorial boards Cancer Prevention Research; Photodermatology, Photoimmunology, & Photomedicine; UpToDate; eMedicine; Journal of Dermatological Sciences; JAMA Dermatology

Leadership positions in professional societies American Academy of Dermatology (Vice Chair, Committee on Science and Research); Photomedicine Society (Board of Directors)