Discoid lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune condition that causes skin rashes, often on the scalp or face. There is no cure, but treatment can help. Lupus Foundation of America: More Than Skin Deep: Ashara’s Journey with Discoid Lupus For National Skincare Awareness Month, Ashara Collie is sharing her journey of being diagnosed and living with discoid lupus – a type of lupus that affects the skin and often causes round, disc-shaped ...

Understanding the Context

Lupus Foundation of America: How do I know if I have subacute cutaneous lupus or discoid lupus? What is the difference? Both subacute cutaneous lupus and discoid lupus are a form of lupus skin disease, though they have some distinct differences. Subacute cutaneous lupus may show up as ring-shaped red, scaly lesions.

Key Insights

How do I know if I have subacute cutaneous lupus or discoid lupus? What is the difference? Discoid lupus has an unknown incidence, although it is two to three times more common than systemic lupus erythematosus. [5][6] The disease tends to affect young adults, and women are affected more than men in a 2:1 ratio. Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic scarring skin condition.

Final Thoughts

It is the most common form of cutaneous lupus. DLE is a sub-type of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus.