Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is strongly associated with which antibody and has which characteristic skin finding?
- A Anti-dsDNA antibody — discoid plaques with follicular plugging
- B Anti-Ro/SSA antibody — annular/polycyclic photosensitive plaques without scarring ✓
- C Anti-Smith antibody — butterfly malar rash
- D Anti-histone antibody — photo-distributed maculopapular rash
Correct answer: B. Anti-Ro/SSA antibody — annular/polycyclic photosensitive plaques without scarring
Explanation
SCLE is strongly associated with anti-Ro/SSA antibodies (present in 70-80%). Clinically it shows annular, polycyclic, or papulosquamous (psoriasiform) photosensitive eruptions on sun-exposed areas (upper back, chest, shoulders) without scarring. Drug-induced SCLE (terbinafine, hydrochlorothiazide, proton pump inhibitors, diltiazem) also shows anti-Ro positivity. Unlike DLE (discoid scarring) or SLE (multi-system), SCLE occupies an intermediate position with mild systemic involvement.
Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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