Lupus Skin Symptoms

Rash

• During a flare-up, the most common symptom of lupus is a rash that develops on the face, usually the cheeks and nose. It is often referred to as a "butterfly" rash, since it's shaped like a butterfly.
  
  

Sores

• Many times, a person with lupus will also develop one or more sores in the mouth. These are different than the lesions that may form on the skin.
  
  

Scaly Patches

• Another fairly common skin symptom of lupus is the development of scaly patches on the neck, face and scalp, as well as the arms and chest. This is a different condition of the skin than the "butterfly" rash, though it may be seen along with it.
  
  

Red Spots

• Another type of rash that may affect a person with lupus is the formation of tiny red spots on the skin. This will generally affect the back and neck, as well as the arms, hands and sometimes face.
  
  

Lesions

• On occasion, a person with lupus may also begin to develop lesions on the skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, these lesions have the potential of forming on any portion of the skin that is exposed to the sun. An individual with lupus is more susceptible to the damaging effects of UV rays than someone without the condition.