Monsel's The findings are very characteristic for subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, being those of a severe atrophying interface dermatitis associated with marked upregulation of the type 1 interferon microenvironment being relatively paucicellular in regards to a lack of deeper-seated lymphocytic infiltration especially around adnexal structures. The differential diagnosis comprises subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, mixed connective tissue disease, and anti-Ro positive systemic lupus erythematosus. All three conditions can exhibit a very interesting polycyclic annular skin rash with this pattern of superficial atrophying lichenoid dermatitis as noted here. It is important to know if such patients have any extracutaneous stigmata and as well as to check serologic studies for anti-Ro or anti-RNP antibodies.
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