Lupus Panniculitis Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Lupus panniculitis, also known as lupus profundus, is a rare form of lupus that affects the layer of fat beneath the skin, called the subcutaneous fat layer. This condition is characterized by inflammation in the fatty tissue, leading to painful nodules or lumps on the skin.

While the exact cause of lupus panniculitis is not fully understood, it is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This type of lupus typically occurs in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), but can also develop independently.

What are the Types of Lupus panniculitis?

The different types include superficial panniculitis, which affects the fatty tissue under the skin, and deep panniculitis, which involves the deeper layers of subcutaneous fat. Additionally, there is a subtype called subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma, which can clinically mimic lupus panniculitis but is a distinct entity.

Each type of lupus panniculitis manifests with characteristic skin lesions, inflammation, and potential systemic involvement, requiring proper diagnosis and management by healthcare.

Lupus Panniculitis, also known as Lupus Profundus, is a rare subtype of cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
There are two main types of Lupus Panniculitis: the superficial and deep forms.
Superficial Lupus Panniculitis primarily affects the subcutaneous fat layer.
Deep Lupus Panniculitis involves inflammation of the deeper fat layers and can be more severe.
Symptoms of Lupus Panniculitis may include tender nodules or lumps under the skin.
Diagnosis of Lupus Panniculitis is typically confirmed through a skin biopsy.

What are the Symptoms of Lupus Panniculitis?

Lupus panniculitis, also known as lupus profundus, can present with various symptoms that affect the skin and deeper tissues. Patients may experience painful, firm nodules or lumps under the skin, usually on the arms, buttocks, or lupus panniculitis face.

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These nodules can be red or purple in color and may be accompanied by inflammation and tenderness. In some cases, patients may also notice skin discoloration or scarring in the affected areas. It is essential for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and management.

Lupus panniculitis may present with painful subcutaneous nodules on the arms, legs, or trunk.
Skin lesions in lupus panniculitis often show a characteristic pattern of inflammation and fat tissue involvement.
Individuals with lupus panniculitis may experience fever, fatigue, and weight loss as systemic symptoms.
Ultrasound or biopsy may be needed to confirm a diagnosis of lupus panniculitis.
Treatment for lupus panniculitis typically involves corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications to manage symptoms.

What are the Causes of Lupus Panniculitis?

The exact cause of lupus panniculitis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy fat tissue beneath the skin. Genetic factors may also play a role in predisposing individuals to develop this condition.

Additionally, hormonal imbalances, certain medications, and environmental triggers can contribute to the development of lupus panniculitis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing symptoms and preventing complications associated with this condition.

Lupus panniculitis can be triggered by an underlying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) condition, impacting the skin's fatty tissue.
Certain medications, such as hydralazine or tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, may induce lupus panniculitis as a side effect.
Infections like tuberculosis, hepatitis C, or fungal infections can lead to the development of lupus panniculitis in susceptible individuals.
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light or other environmental factors can contribute to the onset of lupus panniculitis in some patients.
Genetic predisposition and family history of autoimmune disorders can increase the risk of developing lupus panniculus.

What are the Risk Factors for Lupus Panniculitis?

While the exact cause of lupus panniculitis is unknown, several risk factors have been identified. Individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or other autoimmune disorders are at an increased risk of developing lupus panniculitis.

Additionally, women are more commonly affected by this condition than men. Genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, such as sun exposure and certain medications, may also play a role in the development of lupus panniculitis. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial in improving outcomes for

Female gender: Women are more commonly affected by lupus panniculitis compared to men.
Family history: Individuals with a family history of lupus or autoimmune diseases may have a higher risk.
Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can trigger or exacerbate symptoms of lupus panniculitis.
Certain medications: Some drugs, such as hydralazine or isoniazid, have been linked to an increased risk of developing lupus panniculitis.
Smoking: Tobacco use has been associated with an elevated risk of lupus and related conditions like lupus panniculitis.

How is Lupus Panniculitis Diagnosed?

The doctor may look for characteristic skin lesions, including subcutaneous nodules or plaques. Blood tests to check for autoimmune markers like antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and extractable nuclear antigens (ENA) can aid in the diagnosis.

A skin biopsy is often crucial, revealing inflammation in the deeper layers of the skin. Imaging studies like MRI or ultrasound may be used to assess the extent of involvement. Overall, a comprehensive approach combining clinical evaluation, blood work, biopsy, and imaging helps in confirming lupus panniculitis.

Diagnosis of lupus panniculitis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider.
A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of lupus panniculitis.
Blood tests can help detect autoantibodies associated with lupus panniculitis, aiding in diagnosis.
Imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess the extent of inflammation in lupus panniculitis.

What are the Treatments for Lupus Panniculitis?

Lupus Panniculitis treatment options often focus on controlling inflammation and managing symptoms. Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system's abnormal response. Immunosuppressive medications like methotrexate or azathioprine may be used for more severe cases.

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Topical treatments and intralesional corticosteroid injections can target specific areas of involvement. Additionally, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help alleviate pain and discomfort. A multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists and rheumatologists is essential for the comprehensive management of lupus panniculus.

NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) help reduce pain and swelling.
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) suppress the immune response.
Antimalarial medications (e.g., hydroxychloroquine) are used to manage skin manifestations.
Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., methotrexate azathioprine) may be prescribed for severe cases.
Topical corticosteroid creams can target specific skin lesions.
In some cases, intravenous immunoglobulin therapy helps modulate the immune system.

How can Lupus Panniculitis be Prevented?

To prevent lupus panniculitis:

Manage lupus with medications.
Protect from sun with sunscreen and clothing.
Reduce stress through relaxation.
Regular check-ups with your doctor.
Live healthily (eat, exercise, rest).
Avoid triggers that worsen symptoms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

To manage lupus panniculitis, it’s important to follow your doctor’s treatment plan, which may include medications like steroids or immunosuppressants. Avoid excessive sun exposure and stress, as these can trigger flare-ups.

Yes, lupus panniculitis can lead to complications like skin ulcers, scarring, and in severe cases, damage to deeper tissues. It may also be associated with other forms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), affecting organs like the kidneys, heart, or lungs.

Managing lupus panniculitis typically involves anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, or immunosuppressive drugs to reduce inflammation. It’s also important to avoid triggers such as UV radiation and infection.

Lupus panniculitis may recur after treatment, especially if there is ongoing lupus activity. Relapses are possible, but managing the underlying lupus with medications and lifestyle changes can reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

Lupus panniculitis and lupus profundus are often used interchangeably, as both refer to the deep skin inflammation and tissue damage associated with lupus. Both can cause similar symptoms, like nodules and painful lumps.