Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is a subtype of cutaneous lupus that is characterized by smooth or scaly annular plaques with a predilection for photoexposed areas. It occurs very rarely in children. The sides of the face, the lower neck, and the extensor surfaces of the arms are the most commonly affected sites. Although scarring is not a characteristic finding, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and persistent telangiectasia are common sequelae.

There is a strong association with anti-Ro/SSA antibodies and SCLE. In a small number of cases reported, both sexes seem equally involved, and there is no association with a particular race / ethnicity.

Systemic involvement is generally mild and less common in children as compared to adults, who may develop arthralgias, arthritis, and serositis.

Of note, certain drugs, such as antihypertensives (hydrochlorothiazide, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme [ACE] inhibitors), antifungals (terbinafine), NSAIDs, proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole), and, more recently, various chemotherapeutic agents (such as paclitaxel), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha antagonists, osimertinib, and pembrolizumab have been reported to trigger SCLE in adults. There has been at least one report of drug-induced SCLE in an infant, following treatment with omeprazole.