Subacute Cutaneous Lupus — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateConnective Tissue & VasculitisSubacute Cutaneous LupusSCE Dermatology

A 35-year-old woman with known SLE develops annular erythematous lesions on her upper back and shoulders. She has no scarring. Antibodies to Ro/SSA are strongly positive. What subtype of cutaneous lupus is this?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) presents with photosensitive annular/polycyclic or papulosquamous lesions, typically on the upper trunk, shoulders, and arms. Unlike DLE, SCLE does NOT cause scarring (it heals without atrophy). Anti-Ro/SSA antibodies are positive in approximately 70-80% of SCLE patients. SCLE can be idiopathic or drug-induced (PPIs, Terbinafine, thiazides, TNF-alpha inhibitors). About 50% of SCLE patients meet criteria for SLE but tend to have milder systemic disease. Treatment includes sun protection, topical corticosteroids, and Hydroxychloroquine.

Reference: BAD 2016 Cutaneous Lupus Guidelines