What causes a butterfly rash?
A butterfly rash is most often associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, or lupus. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can have a serious and widespread effect on the body, including the skin, joints, muscles, and other organs.
In some cases, a red facial rash with a butterfly-like shape can appear on the face, but it is related to other causes besides lupus. The rash seen in these other diseases, disorders or conditions does not always involve the nose. They include:
-
Dermatomyositis (chronic disease characterized by muscle inflammation and weakness)
-
Pellagra (niacin, or vitamin B3 deficiency)
-
Rosacea (chronic, inflammatory skin condition)
-
Scarlet fever
-
Sunburn or windburn
What are the potential complications of a butterfly rash?
You can best minimize the serious and potentially life-threatening complications of lupus, which is the most common cause of a butterfly rash, by following your treatment plan and seeing your healthcare provider as recommended. Complications of lupus can affect almost any organ in the body and include:
-
Arthritis
-
Bleeding
-
Blood clots
-
Central nervous system damage and stroke
-
Frequent infections
-
Kidney damage and kidney failure
-
Liver damage
-
Pleurisy
-
Seizures
-
Vasculitis
-
Worsening of the butterfly rash and other rashes on the body, especially with sun exposure
INTRODUCTION
What is a butterfly rash?
A butterfly rash is a reddish rash on the face that spreads over the bridge of the nose and across the cheeks, making the shape of a butterfly. A butterfly rash, also called a malar rash or flush, is most commonly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, or lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. About 50% of people with lupus have a butterfly rash (Source:
Read more about butterfly rash introduction
SYMPTOMS
What other symptoms might occur with a butterfly rash?
A butterfly rash and other symptoms of lupus are the result of tissue inflammation throughout various parts of the body. The type and severity of symptoms vary between individuals and with the type of lupus. Lupus symptoms generally occur as periodic attacks, or flare-ups, followed by periods of time in which symptoms improve....
Read more about butterfly rash symptoms
9 Tips to Manage Allergies While You Travel 
11 Truths About RA
Quick Tips for Your Asthma Action Plan
