Blistering eruptions in a Nigerian patient with SLE

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a
multisystemic disorder with variable presentation.
Diagnosis is delayed as it usually presents as a
chronic febrile illness mimicking more common
febrile illnesses in the environment and is suggested
when cutaneous features develop. Erythema of the
malar area is an early manifestation of SLE but is
obscured by the heavy pigmentation in blacks.
Cutaneous manifestations of SLE are varied and
develop at different stages of the illness. They include
photosensitivity, urticaria, butterfly rash, facial
oedema, vaculits, alopecia and chelitis. Blistering
eruptions are uncommon in patients with SLE.
We present a 27 year old female with SLE and
blistering eruptions on the photosensitive region of
the face, we also review differential diagnosis of
blistering eruptions in patients with SLE.