Erythematosus Profundus

Erythematosus profundus is a general term used to describe a group of autoimmune diseases characterized by skin rashes and joint inflammation. The term “erythematosus” refers to the redness of the skin, while “profundus” means “deep.” These diseases are part of a larger group of autoimmune conditions known as connective tissue diseases.

There are several different types of erythematosus profundus, including:

1. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many different parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and heart. It is characterized by a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, as well as joint pain and fatigue.
2. Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE): DLE is a form of lupus that affects only the skin. It is characterized by coin-shaped red patches on the face, neck, and scalp that may become scaly and discolored.
3. Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (SCLE): SCLE is a type of lupus that affects only the skin. It is characterized by circular or butterfly-shaped rashes that appear on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the arms and neck.
4. Drug-Induced Lupus Erythematosus (DIL): DIL is a form of lupus that is triggered by certain medications. It can cause symptoms similar to SLE but typically resolves once the offending medication is stopped.
5. Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD): MCTD is a rare autoimmune disease that combines features of several different connective tissue diseases, including lupus, scleroderma, and polymyositis. It is characterized by skin rashes, joint pain, and inflammation of the esophagus.

All of these types of erythematosus profundus are caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy tissues in the body. The exact cause of these diseases is not well understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to play a role.

Causes

Possible causes of erythematosus profundus.

1. Lupus erythematosus: Lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disorder that can cause deep erythema. The skin lesions are usually found on the face, neck, and upper chest.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints and can cause deep erythema.
3. Sjogren’s syndrome: Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the glands that produce tears and saliva, and can also cause deep erythema.
4. Dermatomyositis: Dermatomyositis is a type of autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and muscles. It can cause a distinctive rash on the face, neck, and upper chest, as well as deep erythema.
5. Polymyositis: Polymyositis is a type of autoimmune disorder that affects the muscles. It can cause deep erythema and muscle weakness.
6. Scleroderma: Scleroderma is a group of autoimmune disorders that cause the skin to become thick and hard. Deep erythema is a common symptom.
7. Vasculitis: Vasculitis is a group of autoimmune disorders that cause inflammation of the blood vessels. Deep erythema can occur as a result of the inflammation.
8. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. Deep erythema can occur in severe cases.
9. Eczema: Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed skin. Deep erythema can occur in severe cases.
10. Cellulitis: Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can cause deep erythema. The infection can spread quickly and can be serious if left untreated.
11. Staphylococcal infections: Staphylococcal infections, also known as staph infections, are caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. They can cause deep erythema and can be serious if left untreated.
12. Streptococcal infections: Streptococcal infections, also known as strep infections, are caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. They can cause deep erythema and can be serious if left untreated.
13. Fungal infections: Fungal infections, such as ringworm and athlete’s foot, can cause deep erythema. They can be treated with antifungal medications.
14. Viral infections: Viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus and the human papillomavirus, can cause deep erythema. They can be treated with antiviral medications.
15. Lyme disease: Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is spread by ticks. It can cause deep erythema, as well as other symptoms such as joint pain and fatigue.
16. Rocky Mountain spotted fever: Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a bacterial infection that is spread by ticks. It can cause deep

Symptoms

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells. One form of SLE is called deep erythematosus (also known as discoid lupus erythematosus), which primarily affects the skin.

Here is a list of symptoms commonly associated with deep erythematosus:

1. Rash: A rash is a common symptom of deep erythematosus, which typically appears as red, scaly patches on the face, neck, or scalp. The rash may be itchy and may sometimes blister.
2. Photosensitivity: People with deep erythematosus are often sensitive to sunlight, and exposure to the sun may trigger a flare-up of symptoms.
3. Mouth ulcers: Mouth ulcers are painful sores that can develop inside the mouth, and they are a common symptom of deep erythematosus.
4. Joint pain and swelling: Joint pain and swelling are common in people with deep erythematosus, and they may also experience stiffness and decreased range of motion.
5. Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and it may be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
6. Fever: People with deep erythematosus may experience fever, which is often a sign of an underlying infection or inflammation.
7. Anemia: Anemia, or a low red blood cell count, is a common complication of deep erythematosus, and it can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
8. Hair loss: Hair loss is a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and it may be accompanied by thinning or patchy hair.
9. Raynaud’s phenomenon: Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition in which the fingers and toes become pale and cold in response to stress or cold temperatures.
10. Numbness or tingling: Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet is a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and it may be accompanied by muscle weakness.
11. Dry eyes: Dry eyes are a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and they can cause discomfort, irritation, and sensitivity to light.
12. Chest pain: Chest pain is a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and it may be accompanied by shortness of breath or a rapid heartbeat.
13. Swollen glands: Swollen glands, or lymph nodes, are a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and they may be accompanied by fatigue, fever, or night sweats.
14. Depression: Depression is a common complication of deep erythematosus, and it may be caused by the physical and emotional toll of the disease.
15. Memory problems: Memory problems, such as forgetfulness or confusion, are a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and they may be related to inflammation or other underlying medical conditions.
16. Headaches: Headaches are a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and they may be accompanied by neck pain, fatigue, or sensitivity to light.
17. Muscle pain: Muscle pain is a common symptom of deep erythematosus, and it may be accompanied by weakness, cramping, or stiffness.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of SLE can be challenging, as it often presents with a wide range of symptoms and can mimic other diseases. Here are different tests and diagnoses that can be used to diagnose SLE and erythematosus profundus:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures the number of red and white blood cells and platelets in the blood. Abnormalities in these cells can be a sign of SLE.
2. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test: These tests measure inflammation in the body and can be elevated in people with SLE.
3. Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test: This test looks for antibodies in the blood that are directed against the body’s own cells and tissues. A positive ANA test is often present in people with SLE.
4. Anti-dsDNA Antibody Test: This test looks for antibodies against double-stranded DNA, which are often present in people with SLE and can indicate disease activity.
5. Anti-Ro (SSA) and Anti-La (SSB) Antibody Tests: These tests look for antibodies against the Ro (SSA) and La (SSB) proteins, which are associated with SLE and other autoimmune diseases.
6. Complement Levels Test: This test measures the levels of complement, a group of proteins in the blood that help fight infections and inflammation. Low levels of complement can be a sign of SLE.
7. Lupus Anticoagulant Test: This test measures the tendency of blood to clot and can be elevated in people with SLE.
8. Anti-Smith (Sm) Antibody Test: This test looks for antibodies against the Smith (Sm) protein, which are associated with SLE.
9. Anti-RNP Antibody Test: This test looks for antibodies against ribonucleoproteins, which are associated with SLE and other autoimmune diseases.
10. Anti-SSA/Ro and Anti-SSB/La Antibody Tests: These tests look for antibodies against the SSA/Ro and SSB/La proteins, which are associated with SLE and other autoimmune diseases.
11. Kidney Function Tests: These tests measure how well the kidneys are functioning and can detect early signs of kidney damage, which is a common complication of SLE.
12. Chest X-Ray: This test produces images of the chest and can detect signs of lung involvement in SLE, such as pleural effusions or lung infiltrates.
13. Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Echocardiogram: These tests measure the electrical and mechanical activity of the heart and can detect signs of heart involvement in SLE, such as pericarditis or myocarditis.
14. Neurological Exam: This test assesses the function of the nervous system and can detect signs of neurological involvement in SLE, such as seizures or confusion.
15. Skin Biopsy: This test involves removing a small sample of skin for examination under a microscope. It can confirm the diagnosis of erythematosus profundus and determine the extent of skin involvement in SLE.

Treatment

While there is no cure for SLE, there are various treatments available to help manage its symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Here are 20 treatments for DLE:

1. Topical corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, are a common first-line treatment for DLE. They can reduce inflammation and itching, and help to improve the appearance of the skin.
2. Sun protection: Sun exposure can trigger flare-ups of DLE, so it’s important to protect the skin from the sun. This can be done by wearing protective clothing, using a high-SPF sunscreen, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure.
3. Moisturizers: Moisturizing the skin can help to reduce itching and improve the appearance of the skin. It’s important to use a fragrance-free and non-irritating moisturizer.
4. Antimalarials: Antimalarials, such as hydroxychloroquine, are commonly used to treat SLE, including DLE. They help to reduce inflammation and can also prevent flare-ups.
5. Topical calcineurin inhibitors: Topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as pimecrolimus and tacrolimus, are another option for treating DLE. They work by suppressing the immune system, which helps to reduce inflammation.
6. Topical retinoids: Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, can help to improve the appearance of the skin by promoting skin cell turnover.
7. Phototherapy: Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, involves exposing the skin to a specific type of light. This can help to reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the skin.
8. Systemic corticosteroids: In severe cases of DLE, systemic corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be needed. These are taken orally and work by reducing inflammation throughout the body.
9. Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil, can help to suppress the immune system, which can reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
10. Laser therapy: Laser therapy can help to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing redness and inflammation.
11. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the skin with liquid nitrogen. This can help to reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the skin.
12. Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a type of exfoliation that can help to improve the appearance of the skin by removing dead skin cells and promoting skin cell turnover.
13. Chemical peels: Chemical peels use chemicals to exfoliate the skin and improve its appearance. They can also help to reduce inflammation and improve the texture of the skin.
14. Topical immunomodulators: Topical immunomodulators, such as imiquimod, can help to reduce inflammation by
15. Ultraviolet (UV) Light Therapy: UV light therapy involves exposing the skin to artificial UV light in a controlled environment. It can help reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of deep erythema.
16. Phototherapy: Phototherapy is a type of therapy that involves exposing the skin to specific types of light in a controlled environment. It can help reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of deep erythema.
17. Biologic Drugs: Biologic drugs are medications that are made from living cells or tissues. They are used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases, including SLE, and can help reduce inflammation and prevent skin rashes from getting worse.
18. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are medications that are used to treat infections. If deep erythema is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear up the infection.
19. Antidepressants: Antidepressants are medications that are used to treat depression and other mood disorders. They can also be used to treat certain symptoms of SLE, including chronic pain and fatigue.
20. Anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants are medications that are used to treat seizures. They can also be used to treat certain symptoms of SLE, including chronic pain and fatigue.

References