Living with Lupus erythematosus tumidus
A rare type of chronic skin lupus with smooth pink to violet bumps on sun-exposed skin that heal without scars.
Understanding Lupus erythematosus tumidus
It causes smooth, non-scarring pink to violet pimples (papules) on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, upper back, neck, trunk, and arms. They usually affect both sides of the body, and they normally clear without scars. People usually do not have other symptoms of systemic lupus. It can appear at a variety of ages.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:
- Smooth pink to violet bumps (papules)
- Red raised patches (erythematous plaques)
- Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include skin, hair, and nail specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Skin, hair, and nail specialists (dermatologists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with Lupus Foundation of America and other patient organizations
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD doesn't describe a cause for this condition yet.
Also known as: intermittent cutaneous lupus; let
Patient organizations
- Lupus Foundation of AmericaLupus erythematosus tumidus · United States
- Lupus Research AllianceLupus erythematosus tumidus · United States
- Children's Skin Disease FoundationSkin diseases · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Lupus erythematosus tumidus.
Explore research for Lupus erythematosus tumidus
Explore actively recruiting Lupus erythematosus tumidus studies with HealthSpark.
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- Recruiting studies from ClinicalTrials.gov
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- Eligibility is confirmed by the study team
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