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What Causes Lupus Rash on the Face?

Jennifer Long
Jennifer Long

A lupus rash on the face is most commonly caused by a form of systemic lupus called cutaneous lupus erythmatosus. Three sub-types of cutaneous lupus — chronic, subacute, and acute — are known to cause three different types of rash. While the primary location of these rashes is the face, it is not uncommon for one to appear elsewhere on the body, particularly on spots exposed to light. Although cutaneous lupus causes a rash, it is still a form of a systemic condition, which means it can affect the whole body.

Lupus is a form of an autoimmune disease, which means that the disease causes the immune system to attack the cells in the body. Skin cells are targeted by cutaneous lupus erythematosus, which is why this form is typically the one that causes a rash.

A lupus rash on the face may be caused by acute cutaneous lupus, which can also cause severe headaches.
A lupus rash on the face may be caused by acute cutaneous lupus, which can also cause severe headaches.

Chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus, also called discoid lupus, causes a rash that has lesions shaped like a disk. The lesions are usually thick and scaly and do not generally itch or burn. Skin discoloration and scarring often result from repeat occurrences. Many people will develop a rash on other areas of the body, but most outbreaks occur on the face. The rash is often very sensitive to light and can worsen with prolonged exposure.

Individuals suffering from lupus may have an increased risk of developing lung cancer.
Individuals suffering from lupus may have an increased risk of developing lung cancer.

A rash on the face can also be caused by subacute cutaneous lupus, and these lesions have noticeable edges and resemble red rings. Although the rash commonly occurs on areas that are exposed to sunlight, such as the arms, a face rash is also likely. Generally, itching and scarring are uncommon, but mild discoloration is possible.

Acute cutaneous lupus is another possible cause of a lupus rash on the face. With this type of lupus, active systemic lupus is frequently the primary cause. A malar rash, also called a butterfly rash, occurs with this form. This rash resembles a butterfly and stretches from one cheek to the other, crossing over the bridge of the nose.

Hydrotherapy may be used to treat the achy joints associated with lupus.
Hydrotherapy may be used to treat the achy joints associated with lupus.

It's best for patients who have a lupus rash to speak to a dermatologist. Creams and ointments can be applied to aid healing, and steroid injections can also be used. All three types of lupus rash are photosensitive, and individuals should stay out of direct sunlight when they have a rash.

Discussion Comments

ysmina

This butterfly rash that everyone is talking about seems to be one of the major signs of lupus although there are other conditions that can cause it like rosacea.

I get the rash too, but only periodically when I'm having a flare. My rash seems to be different in that, not only heat but also cold affects it. The rash however is the easiest symptom to deal with when I have a lupus rash. The extreme fatigue, headaches, inflammation, tingling and numbness are harder to deal with. The only thing that gives me some relief during a flare is steroid treatment but there are side effects to it.

bluedolphin

@donasmrs-- I have the same symptoms as you. I get rashes on both my face and body although they don't look exactly the same.

The one on my face is like a malar rash. But the ones I get on my arms and chest look a little bit different. They look more like a sunburn and I don't necessarily have to be in sunlight to get them. Even if I get too hot, my facial rash and chest rash acts up. They become very red and itchy.

I'm taking antihistamine medications to keep them under control. They help but don't cure the problem. Staying indoors and staying cool seems to be the best way to control them. I just wish that they would go away completely.

donasmrs

I guess I have acute cutaneous lupus because I have a butterfly rash on my face. I also get rashes on my body when I'm exposed to sunlight. I'm very sensitive to the sun.

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    • A lupus rash on the face may be caused by acute cutaneous lupus, which can also cause severe headaches.
      By: mast3r
      A lupus rash on the face may be caused by acute cutaneous lupus, which can also cause severe headaches.
    • Individuals suffering from lupus may have an increased risk of developing lung cancer.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Individuals suffering from lupus may have an increased risk of developing lung cancer.
    • Hydrotherapy may be used to treat the achy joints associated with lupus.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Hydrotherapy may be used to treat the achy joints associated with lupus.
    • Swollen joints are a common symptom of lupus.
      By: Laurin Rinder
      Swollen joints are a common symptom of lupus.
    • Creams and ointments can be applied to aid healing of a lupus rash on the face.
      By: Alliance
      Creams and ointments can be applied to aid healing of a lupus rash on the face.