Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects connective tissue, causing inflammation in joints, tissues and organs. SLE causes visible skin changes that are one of the most recognized manifestations of the disease. While not all patients will have all types of skin symptoms, three quarters will have symptoms at least part of the time, the University of Maryland Medical Center states.
Butterfly Rash
The "butterfly rash" of SLE is what many people think of when they think of lupus. A butterfly rash is a rash that crosses the nose and cheeks in roughly the form of a butterfly, with the cheeks being the wings. The sides of the nose and the fold between the nose and cheek are not affected by the rash. The rash may be raised or flat, but normally isn't pimply or pustular, like the rash of diseases like rosacea. The rash is not painful or itchy, and may appear and disappear when the disease flares and then goes into remission.
Mouth Ulcers
Ulcerations inside the mouth and nose often occur in people with SLE. Ulcers may be found on the palate, the sides of the cheeks, gum and inside of the nose. Ulcers in the mouth and nose are usually painless, according to the Lupus Foundation of America.
Sun Sensitivity
Many people with SLE are photosensitive, meaning that their symptoms, including skin manifestations, worsen after exposure to ultraviolet light. Rashes may occur in sun exposed areas besides the face after sun exposure, and butterfly rashes may appear or worsen.
Raynaud's Syndrome
Raynaud's is not specific to SLE, but affects many patients with the disease. Patients with Raynaud's have fingers and toes that turn white or blue, when exposed to the cold, due to compromised circulation.
Vasculitis
Vasculitis is inflammation of the blood vessels, and it can cause a number of skin symptoms, including hives, welts, mottling on the palms of the hands, and red bumps on the legs or across other areas of the body.
Other Symptoms
Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is common in active SLE, occurring in 45 percent of people, the Lupus Foundation of America states. Nodules may appear on the fingers, and patients with low platelet counts related to the disease may have tiny pinpoint rash called petechiae on any area of the body. Nail changes occur in 10 percent of people and include curling, cracking and nail loss. Fingernails may be pitted or ridged, with small red lines known as splinter hemorrhages underneath them.
