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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Successful Treatment of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus in a Horse With Tacrolimus Ointment.

Journal:
Veterinary dermatology
Year:
2026
Authors:
Dropsy, Hélène et al.
Affiliation:
Service de Dermatologie · France
Species:
horse

Plain-English summary

A 9-year-old male Quarter Horse had a skin problem on his right upper eyelid, which was diagnosed as cutaneous lupus erythematosus, a condition that can cause skin lesions and is often triggered by sunlight. The horse was treated with a special ointment called tacrolimus and wore a mask to protect against UV light. Over the next three years, the treatment worked well, and there were no negative side effects. The horse's condition improved, and he was able to manage the symptoms effectively.

Abstract

A 9-year-old gelding Quarter Horse with a lesion on the right upper eyelid was diagnosed with cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Clinical resolution and control of UV-induced flares were achieved with topical tacrolimus and a UV-blocking mask without adverse effects over the following 3 years.

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Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41603129/