# Koebner Phenomenon Induced by Eyeglasses in a Patient With Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

**Authors:** Sam Fathizadeh, Alexander D. Woods, Roger Haber

PMC · DOI: 10.1155/crdm/8262393 · Case Reports in Dermatological Medicine · 2025-10-16

## TL;DR

A patient with discoid lupus erythematosus developed skin lesions due to pressure from eyeglasses, highlighting the Koebner phenomenon in this condition.

## Contribution

This case report presents a rare instance of Koebner phenomenon in discoid lupus erythematosus, emphasizing its clinical significance.

## Key findings

- Koebner phenomenon was observed in a DLE patient triggered by eyeglass frames.
- The patient later developed systemic lupus erythematosus, suggesting disease progression.
- The case underscores the importance of avoiding mechanical trauma in DLE patients.

## Abstract

The Koebner phenomenon, or isomorphic response, refers to the induction of disease-specific lesions on uninvolved skin following trauma. This phenomenon is well-documented across several dermatologic conditions such as psoriasis and vitiligo but is less recognized in discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE). We report a case of a 37-year-old African American woman with DLE, triggered by repeated contact with eyeglass frames, leading to the development of discoid lesions at the points of pressure on her face. This case is a rare occurrence of Koebnerization in DLE, diagnosed through characteristic histopathological findings and supported by serological evidence. Her management included hydroxychloroquine, topical corticosteroids, and methotrexate due to disease flaring. Eventually, she developed systemic lupus erythematosus, complicating her clinical course. This case discusses the need for awareness regarding Koebnerization in DLE and its potential role in indicating active disease or predicting transition to systemic involvement. Further research is necessary to explore the pathogenic mechanisms and implications of Koebnerization in DLE, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures against mechanical trauma in susceptible individuals.

## Linked entities

- **Chemicals:** hydroxychloroquine (PubChem CID 3652), methotrexate (PubChem CID 4112)
- **Diseases:** discoid lupus erythematosus (MONDO:0019558), systemic lupus erythematosus (MONDO:0007915)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** psoriasis (MESH:D011565), vitiligo (MESH:D014820), DLE (MESH:D008179), systemic lupus erythematosus (MESH:D008180), Koebner (MESH:D016110), trauma (MESH:D014947)
- **Chemicals:** hydroxychloroquine (MESH:D006886), methotrexate (MESH:D008727)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

10 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12549199/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12549199