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Rowell syndrome categorized as cutaneous lupus erythematosus subtype
Rowell syndrome, characterized by erythema multiforme-like lesions associated with lupus erythematosus, could be included as a subtype of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus, according to study results.
Researchers conducted a worldwide, online literary search and reviewed 132 citations that included 95 cases of erythema multiforme (EM)-like lesions and 47 cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) with lupus erythematosus (LE).
“Subacute cutaneous LE (CLE)/acute CLE with EM-like lesions” was defined as a subgroup. It and subacute CLE/acute CLE with TEN-like lesions were considered variants of CLE subpatterns. The researchers stated that Rowell syndrome (RS) also could be considered an independent CLE subtype because it is characterized by the co-occurrence of chronic CLE and EM-like lesions, along with frequent, yet mild systemic concentration.
Researchers said the study was limited by its retrospective data, the small number of cases and by articles that were published at different times.
“RS is a rare and often misdiagnosed condition,” the researchers said. “We conclude that RS might be included as an autonomous [chronic] CLE type within the spectrum of LE-specific skin disease. We hope that the proposal of new diagnostic criteria … will fuel new interest and debate among the scientific community and increase the recognition and research on the proteiform manifestations of CLE.”
Disclosure: See the study for a full list of relevant disclosures.