Lupus erythematosus, or systemic lupus erythematosus, is an autoimmune disease that can have a variety of multi-system manifestations. Early symptoms on the hand may include erythema, Raynaud’s phenomenon, finger and wrist joint pain, and so on.
1. Erythema: Erythema on the hands of SLE is erythema on the palms of the fingers and around the nails, especially on the ulnar side of the fingers and around the nails. The palms of the hands are red and congested, usually not higher than the skin surface, and the color can fade away when pressed.
2. Raynaud’s phenomenon: SLE may have Raynaud’s phenomenon, i.e., when the fingers are cold or emotionally agitated, there may be whitening, cyanosis and flushing, coldness of the finger tips, accompanied by pain and numbness, and in severe cases, ulceration and necrosis of the fingers of both hands may occur.
3. Finger and wrist joint pain: SLE may present symmetrical pain and swelling in finger and wrist joints, but there is no joint bone destruction.
In addition to the hand symptoms mentioned above, SLE can involve multiple systems and many complications can occur. With appropriate treatment, SLE can achieve long-term remission. When the above symptoms occur, you should consult the Rheumatology and Immunology Department in a timely manner, complete the relevant examinations, make a clear diagnosis, and under the guidance of the doctor, treat the disease.