Refractory Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus with Diffuse Alopecia Successfully Treated with Anifrolumab

ABSTRACT

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) poses significant therapeutic challenges due to limited treatment options. Anifrolumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the type I interferon receptor, has emerged as a promising agent in systemic lupus erythematosus, with growing evidence supporting its efficacy in CLE. We present a case of a woman with severe, refractory subacute CLE, characterized by extensive papulosquamous lesions and diffuse nonscarring alopecia, unresponsive to multiple immunosuppressive agents, including belimumab. Initiation of anifrolumab therapy resulted in the complete resolution of active skin lesions and full regrowth of alopecic scalp areas within 16 weeks. This case underscores anifrolumab’s potential as an effective therapeutic option for CLE patients with predominant cutaneous involvement, particularly those with alopecia.