How is cutaneous lupus erythematosus diagnosed?
The specific skin forms of lupus erythematosus have a characteristic appearance. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may perform a skin biopsy of affected skin. Examination of a small sample of your skin under the microscope will allow a more definite diagnosis as the microscopic tissue changes are characteristic. In addition, a small sample may be obtained for an immunofluorescence test. Lupus erythematosus is a condition in which there is antibody production to self-tissues, and these may be detected in the skin with this test.
