Cutaneous telangiectases in neonatal lupus erythematosus

Background: Persistent telangiectases are a feature of neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) but have generally been noted in areas of prior inflammatory disease. The occurrence of vascular macules and papules at sites without preceding dermatitis has not been reported in NLE. Objective: Our purpose was to emphasize a previously unidentified aspect of cutaneous NLE: the presence of angiomatous or matlike telangiectases in sites without antecedent or concurrent dermatitis. Methods: We describe seven patients in which telangiectatic macules or angiomatous papules were primary or early features of NLE. Results: Five infants lacked a history of preceding or concurrent inflammatory lesions at sites of telangiectasia development. In four infants findings included vulvar or inguinal angiomatous papules. Conclusion: Telangiectases may be a presenting feature of NLE, can be found in sun-protected sites, and may occur independent of “lupus dermatitis”.