Imiquimod-Induced Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus–like Changes
Imiquimod is a topical immunomodulator used to treat genital warts and cutaneous malignancies that exerts its effects via induction of proinflammatory cytokines through activation of toll-like receptor (TLR) 7. Although subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) has been reported in association with multiple systemic medications, SCLE in patients treated with topical agents has not been widely reported. We report the case of a 50-year-old woman with local induction of lesions that clinically and histologically resembled SCLE following treatment with topical imiquimod.
Practice Points
- Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus has been reported in association with multiple systemic medications; however, association of this disorder with topical agents has not been widely reported.
- The use of topical imiquimod in patients with a personal or family history of lupus erythematosus should be undertaken with caution until more is known.
The use of imiquimod in patients with a personal or family history of lupus erythematosus or those with a personal history of an autoimmune blistering disorder should be undertaken with caution until more is known.
