Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE)

Discoid lupus erythematosus is a chronic form of cutaneous lupus in which the immune system is thought to target skin tissue, producing inflammation that leaves coin-shaped, scarring patches, most often on the scalp, face, and ears.

It is the most common form of cutaneous lupus and can occur on its own or alongside systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A population-based surveillance study estimated the age- and sex-adjusted incidence of cutaneous lupus at roughly 4.2 per 100,000 people, similar to SLE itself, and found DLE affects women at a markedly higher rate than men and appears more common among Black patients. Research describes DLE as present in an estimated 12 to 15 percent of new SLE cases, and some people with DLE alone go on to develop the systemic form over time, though most cases stay limited to the skin.

Common signs

Round, scaly, disc-shaped patches, most often on the scalp, face, and ears. These areas can become thickened, change color (lighter or darker), and leave scarring, and patches on the scalp can cause permanent hair loss in that spot. The patches are often worsened by sun exposure.

This is a plain-language summary for orientation, not a diagnosis. Mechanisms are described as current understanding, not settled fact. Work with your own clinician for your care.