An Update on the Pathogenesis of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus and Its Role in Clinical Practice

Purpose of Review Understanding the pathogenesis of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is an important step in developing new medications and providing effective treatment to patients. This review focuses on novel research within CLE pathogenesis, as well as some of the medications being developed based on this knowledge. Recent Findings The subtle differences between systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and CLE pathogenesis are highlighted by differences in the circulating immune cells found in each disease, as well as the specific pathways activated by ultraviolet light. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells and the related type I interferon pathway are major components of CLE pathogenesis, and as such, therapies targeting components of this pathway have been successful in recent clinical trials. B cell–depleting therapies have shown success in SLE; however, their role in CLE is less clear. Understanding the differences between these manifestations of lupus allows for the development of therapies that are more effective in skin-specific disease. Summary Discovering key pathways in CLE pathogenesis is critical for understanding the clinical features of the disease and ultimately developing new and effective therapies.