ir menstrual periods. This phenomenon, together with the female predominance of those with the disease, suggest that female hormones play an integral role in the expression of systemic lupus. This hormonal relationship is an active area of ongoing study by research scientists.
             In discoid lupus, only the skin is involved. Over time, 5 to 10% of patients with discoid lupus may develop systemic lupus. The skin involvement in discoid lupus is often found on the face and scalp. It is usually red, may have raised borders, and can scar. Discoid lupus skin rashes are usually painless and do not itch, but scarring of discoid skin lesions can cause permanent hair loss. Patients wi
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