Lupus erythematosus associated with erythema multiforme: does Rowell's syndrome exist?

J Am Acad Dermatol. 1999 May;40(5 Pt 1):773-7. doi: 10.1016/s0190-9622(99)70165-9.

Abstract

We describe a patient with lupus erythematosus who experienced an unusual erythema multiforme-like eruption suggestive of Rowell's syndrome. We compare our case and 9 other reports of lupus erythematosus associated with erythema multiforme to the 4 cases reported by Rowell. Our findings indicate that Rowell's original criteria are not well preserved. The coexistence of lupus erythematosus with erythema multiforme does not impart any unusual characteristics to either disease, and the immunologic disturbances in such patients are probably coincidental.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Azathioprine / therapeutic use
  • Cathartics / adverse effects
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Erythema Multiforme / chemically induced
  • Erythema Multiforme / complications*
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hydroxychloroquine / therapeutic use
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / drug therapy
  • Phenolphthalein / adverse effects
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use
  • Recurrence
  • Syndrome

Substances

  • Cathartics
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Hydroxychloroquine
  • Phenolphthalein
  • Azathioprine
  • Prednisone