A case of systemic lupus erythematosus showing red lunulae after PUVA therapy in a patient with mycosis fungoides

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder with a complex etiology, which can include genetic factors, immune or endocrine disorders and ultraviolet light. Red lunulae have been observed in association with several systemic and cutaneous disorders, most of which have an autoimmune origin. We experienced an interesting case of a 56 year-old patient with mycosis fungoides who had been treated with systemic PUVA for 3 months and developed SLE with red lunulae on all of the finger nails. Herein, we review the relationship between PUVA and SLE and suggest red lunulae as a clinical sign of SLE development.