Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report of Polypodium leucotomos as an Adjuvant Therapy

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is an uncommon autoimmune disease that results in substantial photosensitivity of affected patients. Eruptions often are triggered or exacerbated by UV light (UVL) exposure. We present a case of a patient with SCLE who was moderately controlled with hydroxychloroquine sulfate but achieved near total remission of disease after the addition of oral Polypodium leucotomos supplement which has photoprotective effects on human keratinocytes. We report sustained clinical response with the use of P leucotomos in lupus and suggest that it may have future application in photosensitizing dermatoses.