Discoid Lupus Erythematosus Differential Diagnoses

Updated: Jun 11, 2020
  • Author: Ruth Ann Vleugels, MD, MPH; Chief Editor: William D James, MD  more...
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DDx

Diagnostic Considerations

Early lesions in discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) may be difficult to distinguish from those of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE). Occasionally, they may be mistaken for actinic keratoses or squamous cell carcinomas. Several unusual variants of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE), other than DLE, have been reported, and mucosal surfaces may be affected by lesions that appear identical to DLE of the skin.

Differential Diagnoses