Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Lupus, dermatomyositis and scleroderma
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Lupus, dermatomyositis and scleroderma are autoimmune conditions that can affect the skin as well as other organs. Skin symptoms are sometimes the first sign.
Signs and symptoms
- Lupus: a rash across the cheeks and nose, scaly round patches that can scar, rashes after sun exposure, hair loss
- Dermatomyositis: a purple or dusky rash on the eyelids, knuckles, chest or upper back, often with muscle weakness
- Scleroderma: hard, tight or thickened skin, fingers that turn white or blue in the cold, and small red spots
How we treat it
- Biopsy and blood tests to help establish the diagnosis
- Prescription creams and injections for skin symptoms
- Oral medicines such as hydroxychloroquine and other immune-calming medicines
- Strict sun protection
- Coordination with rheumatology and other specialists
Where it is offered
Offered at all of our offices.
Q&A
Can lupus affect only the skin?
Yes. Cutaneous lupus affects only the skin in many people. Your provider will check for signs that other organs are involved.
Why does the sun matter?
Sunlight can trigger or worsen rashes in lupus and dermatomyositis. Daily sunscreen and protective clothing are part of treatment.
Who you can see
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Karen Chen, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Paige Yurick, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Christine Sacco, FNP-C
Nurse practitioner · Palm Beach Gardens