Lupus Erythematosus Panniculitis (Profundus)

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Abstract
Lupus erythematosus (LE) panniculitis (profundus) is an unusual clinical variant of lupus erythematosus in which the cutaneous inflammatory reaction occurs primarily in the deeper corium. Clinical and immunologic studies have been performed in six patients with LE panniculitis recently observed. Four first degree relatives of one patient also had lupus erythematosus. Two other patients with LE panniculitis were sisters. Four of the patients also had discoid LE lesions. Five had varying systemic involvement and four had high titer antinuclear antibodies. Three had decreased serum complement. The histology is that of lymphocytic vasculitis and panniculitis. Immune complexes were demonstrated by direct fluorescence in blood vessel walls in the active lesions. In four patients trauma was apparently associated with the appearance of the lesions. Therapy with antimalarial drugs seemed beneficial. Greater clinical awareness and newer diagnostic aids have led to an increased significance and apparent incidence of LE panniculitis.