Lupus Erythematosus with Erythema Multiforme like lesions: Rowell Syndrome; a Clinical or Histological Diagnosis?

Abstract

Observation: Rowell syndrome (RS) is a rare and as such very controversial condition. Though defining diagnosing criteria exist, yet many previously published reports lack one or more of these criteria. Erythema multiforme has multiple etiological factors but coexistence of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) and erythema multiforme (EM) like eruption in a single individual has been defined under Rowell syndrome (RS) along with other criteria. We report a case of a 25 year old female who had lesions of lupus erythematosus along with erythema multiforme-like lesions and laboratory findings were consistent with Rowell syndrome. Here we suggest that histopathological criteria should also be included in defining criteria of Rowell syndrome.