Objective: To explore the clinical and histopathological manifestations, therapy and prognosis of lupus erythematosus panniculitis (LEP).
Method: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data and histopathological features of 22 cases of LEP diagnosed at Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2008 to February 2010.
Results: The lesions appeared as atrophy, erythema, subcutaneous nodules, infiltrated erythema, and ulceration over the scalp, face, upper limbs, and buttock. Histopathological features were lobular panniculitis in the subcutaneous fat; sometimes septal panniculitis could be seen. Hydroxychloroquine sulfate and corticosteroid were effective treatment; most patients responded well to the treatment, while a few experienced recurrence when the treatment tapped or discontinued.
Conclusions: LEP is a rare cutaneous variant of lupus erythematosus. The diagnosis of LEP is mainly based on clinical findings and pathological features. Hydroxychloroquine and low- and middle-dose corticosteroid are effective for the treatment of LEP.