Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome

Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome

Article
Skin Care
Diseases & Conditions
+2
Contributed byLester Fahrner, MD+1 moreSep 18, 2023

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • CLE/LP Overlap Syndrome
  • Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus/Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome
  • Lichenoid Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus-Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome

What is Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome (LE-LP Overlap Syndrome) is a rare dermatological condition that presents features of both lupus erythematosus and lichen planus, leading to overlapping symptoms and skin lesions characteristic of both diseases
  • Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome is a form of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), affecting mainly the skin. LE-LP Overlap Syndrome is in the subtype of CLE termed chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE)
  • The risk factors for the condition are not clearly understood, but the cause may be related to a dysfunctional immune system in certain individuals. Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome is mostly seen in adults
  • Treating this skin condition may involve topical applications and systemic medications. With adequate management of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome, the outcomes are generally improved

Who gets Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome can affect individuals of various ages, but it is more commonly observed in adults
  • The condition may be seen worldwide, and individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome? (Predisposing Factors)

  • The precise risk factors for Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome are not fully understood
  • However, genetics and immune system dysregulation may contribute to its development

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome remains unclear, but it is believed to be linked to an autoimmune reaction affecting the skin.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome?

The signs and symptoms of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome may include:

  • Lichenoid papules and plaques on the skin
  • Itching and pain in affected areas
  • Overlapping features of both lichenoid cutaneous lupus erythematosus and lichen planus

How is Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome may involve:

  • Clinical examination and evaluation of skin lesions
  • Evaluation of medical history
  • Blood tests to assess autoantibodies and immune markers
  • Skin biopsy for microscopic analysis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome?

The complications of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome may include chronic skin lesions and discomfort and potential progression to other systemic manifestations of lupus erythematosus.

How is Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome Treated?

The treatment of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome may involve a combination of the following:

  • Topical corticosteroids or immunosuppressive creams
  • Systemic medications, such as antimalarials or other immunomodulators

How can Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome be Prevented?

Due to its complex nature, specific preventive measures are not established for Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome. Early detection and proper management are crucial to control symptoms.

What is the Prognosis of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome varies depending on the extent of skin involvement and response to treatment. With appropriate care, many individuals experience symptom relief and improved quality of life.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Lupus Erythematosus and Lichen Planus Overlap Syndrome:

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or Lupus) is an autoimmune disorder that may affect any body area, such as the skin, joints, blood cells, kidneys, brain, heart, and lungs

Read more about the condition at the following link:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/systemic-lupus-erythematosus/

Was this article helpful

On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Lester Fahrner, MD picture
Reviewed by

Lester Fahrner, MD

Chief Medical Officer, DoveMed Team

0 Comments

Please log in to post a comment.

Related Articles

Test Your Knowledge

Asked by users

Related Centers

Loading

Related Specialties

Loading card

Related Physicians

Related Procedures

Related Resources

Join DoveHubs

and connect with fellow professionals

Related Directories

Who we are

At DoveMed, our utmost priority is your well-being. We are an online medical resource dedicated to providing you with accurate and up-to-date information on a wide range of medical topics. But we're more than just an information hub - we genuinely care about your health journey. That's why we offer a variety of products tailored for both healthcare consumers and professionals, because we believe in empowering everyone involved in the care process.
Our mission is to create a user-friendly healthcare technology portal that helps you make better decisions about your overall health and well-being. We understand that navigating the complexities of healthcare can be overwhelming, so we strive to be a reliable and compassionate companion on your path to wellness.
As an impartial and trusted online resource, we connect healthcare seekers, physicians, and hospitals in a marketplace that promotes a higher quality, easy-to-use healthcare experience. You can trust that our content is unbiased and impartial, as it is trusted by physicians, researchers, and university professors around the globe. Importantly, we are not influenced or owned by any pharmaceutical, medical, or media companies. At DoveMed, we are a group of passionate individuals who deeply care about improving health and wellness for people everywhere. Your well-being is at the heart of everything we do.

© 2023 DoveMed. All rights reserved. It is not the intention of DoveMed to provide specific medical advice. DoveMed urges its users to consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and answers to their personal medical questions. Always call 911 (or your local emergency number) if you have a medical emergency!