Yes, a dermatologist can diagnose lupus. They specialize in treating conditions that affect the hair, skin, and nails, such as autoimmune diseases like lupus.

They can work with you to put together an effective treatment plan and monitor symptoms. It’s important to ensure that you speak with a board certified dermatologist.

Receiving a diagnosis of lupus can take time and may involve assessments from several different medical specialists.

In some cases, a dermatologist may work alongside a rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing autoimmune diseases.

Several ways that a dermatologist can diagnose lupus include:

  • Skin examination: A dermatologist will typically conduct a visual examination of the skin first to check for any signs of lupus.
  • Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test: A dermatologist may order an ANA test, which checks for the presence of antibodies that attack the body’s cells. This can help confirm active lupus.
  • C-reactive protein (CRP) test: This test measures inflammation levels in proteins, which are typically high in people with lupus.
  • Skin biopsy: A small skin sample may be taken from body areas with potential signs of lupus. It is then closely examined in a lab to confirm a diagnosis.

A dermatologist will also ask about your family history, as having immediate relatives with the skin disease may increase your likelihood of getting it.

Lupus that affects the skin can be treated in the following ways:

  • Sun protection: Sunlight can often trigger symptoms of lupus, which is why sun protection is important for people with lupus across all skin tones. The Lupus Foundation of America advises people with the condition to use sunscreen that has at least 30 SPF.
  • Medications: Medications, such as corticosteroids, may be given to help clear the inflammation. A dermatologist may prescribe this drug in pill form, or for more localized cases, they may inject the drug directly into the affected skin area.
  • Laser therapy: If lupus has resulted in thick patches of skin that do not clear even with treatment, or hyperpigmentation, a dermatologist may suggest laser therapy.

To help recognize the signs of lupus on the skin, read What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Lupus?