Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is a disease in which the body's immune system treats its own tissues as foreign and attacks them. The cause of lupus is unknown, and the disease usually takes one of two forms: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), which can affect any body organ; and Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE), which is milder and usually affects only the skin. DLE typically presents with skin lesions localised above the neck, and the scalp, bridge of nose, cheeks, lower lip, and ears. The lesions cause disfigurement of the face and skin, which also has psychological repercussions.

Ms. Anjali (name changed), aged 23 years, was suffering from skin lesions on her face and scalp. The lesions on the scalp were covered with scaly plaques, which after detachment left an inflamed, denuded surface with hair loss. Her lesions were primarily located on the cheeks, nose, and ears and were hyperpigmented in the periphery with central atrophy, resulting in scarring.

She was referred to Dr. Batra’s^® by one of her friends who was a believer in Homeopathy. When the doctor enquired about her past history, she revealed that she had suffered from herpes two years back and had been treated with strong allopathic medicines. The lesions had occurred at around the same time; and since then, she had been trying all sorts of medications and ointments, including steroids, without any result. Instead, the lesions continued to increase on her face and scalp. She had also been suffering from urticaria, a skin rash that manifests as dark red, raised, and itchy bumps, for the last 20 years. After a detailed case history and examination, the doctor diagnosed the condition as DLE. Two or three months after starting the homeopathic treatment, the lesions on her face gradually began to fade away.

Worldwide, the prevalence of SLE ranges from 17-48 cases per 1, 00,000 population. The highest prevalence of SLE occurs in persons aged 40-60 years, and is approximately 10 times higher in women than in men. In about 10% of the cases, DLE progresses into SLE. When SLE gets more severe, it is likely to affect the brain, liver, and kidneys in addition to reducing the white blood cells and blood clotting factors.

Homeopathy is the safest mode of treatment as it heals the lesions and also causes the lesions to fade away, thereby preventing the disfigurement of the face and scalp. Homeopathic treatment, when started at the right time during the course of the disease, helps to avoid complications. It also provides immediate pain relief without any side-effects, besides also reducing the probability of recurrence of the pain.