DLE
Medical abbreviation · Dermatology
| Stands for | Discoid lupus erythematosus |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
DLE stands for Discoid lupus erythematosus, a dermatology abbreviation.
The most common form of chronic cutaneous lupus, producing scaly, coin-shaped plaques on the face, ears and scalp that heal with scarring, pigment change and permanent hair loss. Most patients with DLE alone do not develop systemic lupus.
Example: DLE of scalp with scarring alopecia; start hydroxychloroquine and strict photoprotection.
Usage notes
Sun exposure and smoking worsen the disease. Treatment includes potent topical or injected steroids, sun protection and hydroxychloroquine for widespread disease. Patients with widespread lesions have a higher chance of systemic lupus. Squamous cell carcinoma can rarely arise in long-standing scars.
Related abbreviations
More dermatology abbreviations
- BCC – Basal cell carcinoma
- BP – Bullous pemphigoid
- CSU – Chronic spontaneous urticaria
- CTCL – Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
- DH – Dermatitis herpetiformis
- DIF – Direct immunofluorescence
- DLQI – Dermatology Life Quality Index
- DRESS – Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms
- EASI – Eczema Area and Severity Index
- ED&C – Electrodesiccation and curettage
- EM – Erythema migrans
- GA – Granuloma annulare
See all 52 dermatology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.