Lupus erythematosus tumidus - a rare subset of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus

Introduction. Lupus erythematosus tumidus (LET) is a rare subset of cutaneous lupus erythematosus. This entity is characterized by significant ultraviolet hypersensitivity, benign and chronic course, no systemic symptoms and good response to antimalarial drugs. Skin lesions are not characteristic and may resemble other dermatoses. Due to this fact it may be difficult to establish the proper diagnosis of LET. Objective. To present a case of a patient diagnosed with LET. Case report. A 37-year-old woman with chronic, five-year course of the disease, with remissions and exacerbations. In this case the diagnosis of LET was established on the basis of clinical, histopathological and immunological examinations and phototests. Conclusions. Lack of histopathological picture and specific immunological markers characteristic for LET is the reason for difficulties in establishing the diagnosis of this form of LE.