This rather seldom connective tissue disease includes two lupus-forms: the systemic and the discoid lupus erythematosus. The systemic L.e. starts with rashes on the skin and joint pains, nevertheless all organ systems may be affected. The oral mucosa is in about 20 % of the cases involved. The oral discoid form is characterised by telangiectasias, an ulceration or erythema framed by radiating, white striae. The lesions are most often located unilaterally and on the palate. The cause is still unknown, but has a multifactorial pathophysiology. Although the disease could be self-limiting, topical corticosteroids or systemic immunosuppressive therapy may be useful.
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