Tinea faciei mimicking discoid lupus erythematosus

Abstract

We present a case of a female with inflammatory lesions on the face which were clinically diagnosed as tinea. Topical antifungal treatment was not helpful and direct microscopy and later culture were negative. Incisional biopsy for histopathology was taken and the report revealed discoid lupus erythematosus. As topical corticosteroids and oral chloroquine did not improve the skin lesions, 40 mg daily of oral prednisone was introduced, causing worsening of the lesions. Tinea incognito was diagnosed empirically and the patient was treated with oral itraconazole. All skin lesions resolved within 2 weeks. The patient admitted that guinea pigs she owned at the time were under the care of a veterinarian due to skin lesions.