title: A case of generalized discoid lupus erythematosus: successful treatment with imiquimod cream 5%.
abstract: Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is the most common form of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Classic DLE lesions begin as red-purple macules, papules, or small plaques and rapidly develop a hyperkeratotic surface. Most patients with untreated classic DLE lesions suffer indolent progression to large areas of cutaneous dystrophy and scarring alopecia that can be psychosocially devastating. A 44-year old male patient presented to the clinic with erythematous scaly patches that began on his nose 1 y before. His face was most affected, however, lesions were also noted on his scalp, ears, and limbs. Histopathologic examination verified a diagnosis of DLE. Laboratory examinations and consultations revealed no signs of systemic involvement. Imiquimod cream 5% was applied to the lesions once a day 3 times a week. After 20 applications, entire lesions regressed significantly. Imiquimod cream 5% may represent an alternative treatment method for patients with DLE.
authors.affiliation: 2nd Dermatology Clinic, Ankara Numune Education and Research Hospital, Sihhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
authors.forename: Ulker
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Gül
authors.forename: Müzeyyen
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Gönül
authors.forename: Seray Külcü
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Cakmak
authors.forename: Arzu
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Kiliç
authors.forename: Murat
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Demiriz
mesh_terms: D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000328:Adult; D000634:Aminoquinolines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D000077271:Imiquimod; D008179:Lupus Erythematosus, Discoid / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male
chemical_list: D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D000634:Aminoquinolines; D000077271:Imiquimod