Discoid Lupus Erythematosus: Demographic Profiles and Histopathological Features Publisher



Ah Ehsani Ala H ; S Movahedi SANA ; A Ehsani AMIRHOUSHANG ; P Nourmohammadpour PEDRAM ; K Kamyab KAMBIZ ; M Koohian Mohmmadabadi MINA ; N Mazaheri Tehrani NAYEREH ; A Rahimnia AMIRHOSSEIN
Source: Iranian Journal of Dermatology Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that primarily affects sun-exposed areas and has a low risk of progression to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It typically presents as erythematous papules or plaques, exhibiting histological features such as vacuolar degeneration and lymphocytic infiltration. This study aimed to analyze the demographic and histological characteristics of DLE patients at Razi Hospital, with a focus on improving disease management and understanding. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Razi Hospital in Tehran, examining patients with DLE from 2022 to 2024. Data were collected from hospital records, with primary outcomes including the number of lesions, their sizes, and histopathological findings. Descriptive and comparative statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 28. Results: Among the 97 patients studied, 64.95% were female, with an average age of 42.85 years. Lesions predominantly occurred on the face (62.89%), with red being the most frequently observed color (45.36%). Symptoms such as pruritus or burning sensations were reported in 50.5% of cases. Scalp involvement was noted in 39.17% of patients, and 23.71% had a history of systemic disease. The mean duration for lesion development was 56.84 weeks. Histopathological analysis revealed lymphohistiocytic inflammation in 84.54% of cases, with epidermal changes significantly affecting the timing of lesion appearance (P = 0.011). Dermal changes did not demonstrate a significant impact on the timing or number of lesions. Conclusion: The study concluded that DLE lesions predominantly occur on the face and are primarily red in color. Lymphohistiocytic inflammation was identified as the most common histopathological finding, with epidermal changes significantly influencing the onset of lesions. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.