What Causes Persistent Pain, Dry, Flaking And Extreme Redness On Cheeks?

Posted on Tue, 6 Sep 2016

Question: Persistent, painful, dry, flaking, extreme redness on cheeks is getting so bad, I cannot cover with makeup nor go out in the sun at all.........fatigue and joint pain are worse now, too........what can this be???

Answered by Dr. Abhijit Sonawane (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Kindly rule out SLE by consulting a doctor

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting in HCM.
I read your query and saw the picture you uploaded.
It looks like a malar rash and also you mentioned that you have joint pain too. These could be manifestations of a entity called as Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
I would advice you to consult a doctor, preferably rheumatologist and get few blood tests such as- ANA, anti-dsDNA and anti-sm antibodies.
If any of these are positive then further workup and treatment will be required.
If it comes negative then we can think of other differential diagnosis for your complaints.
I hope I have answered your question well.
If you have any questions kindly ask me back.
Thank you

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng