Lupus erythematosus, though allied in name to lupus vulgaris and often bearing a strong resemblance to it, cannot be considered as a tuberculide. The bacillus tuberculosis has not been found in this affection, and all attempts at inoculation of animals have given negative results. It may be remarked in passing that this disease, like lupus vulgaris, is most commonly seen upon the face (Fig. 42), but, unlike the common form of lupus, it is rarely seen in childhood.
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Fig. 41.—Ulcerating lupus with atrophy of bone.
In the treatment of lupus and the other tuberculides much may be done to improve the general health of the patient and thus to modify to a limited extent the spread of the disease; but to effect a cure a resort to surgical measures is necessary. The palliative treatment by means of ointments and plasters, so frequently employed, need only be mentioned for the sake of condemnation. The morbid tissue must be destroyed, and it matters little how this is done provided it is thoroughly done.
