Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in a 38-Year-Old Woman

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) accounts for 50–80% of all cases of chronic cutaneous lupus, making it the most common subtype. The diagnosis is primarily clinical but is supported by histopathology and direct immunofluorescence in atypical or treatment-resistant cases. Clinical mimicry poses a challenge and requires consideration of a broad spectrum of differential diagnoses. Although DLE is traditionally considered a disease limited to the skin, recent findings point to potential systemic autoimmune activity, for which there were also indications in the present case.