Chilblain lupus

Chilblain lupus is a rare, inflammatory skin condition that can occur in patients with cutaneous or systemic lupus erythematosus. It causes red or purple painful sores, that can be very itchy, on the fingers, toes, soles of the feet, ears and nose. It is a variant of discoid lupus that's triggered by exposure to cold weather.  It is often associated with Raynaud’s phenomenon – a circulation disturbance that is commonly seen in lupus.

Anyone can develop this, but it’s most common in adults. People who live in cold, wet climates may be more likely to have chilblain lupus.

It is diagnosed by a dermatologist who may take a skin biopsy (a small skin sample). Treatments include: antibiotics, hydroxychloroquine, mycophenolate mofetil, steroid ointment or steroids such as prednisolone.

Photograph courtesy of Dermanet.