Malar rash, arthritis, and positive ANA suggest which disease?

• A. Rheumatoid arthritis
• B. Systemic lupus erythematosus
• C. Sjogren syndrome
• D. Dermatomyositis

Answer: (B)

Malar rash, arthritis, and a positive ANA point to systemic lupus erythematosus. The butterfly-shaped malar rash over the cheeks and nasal bridge is a classic cutaneous sign of SLE, and arthritis in SLE is common and typically nonerosive. A positive ANA is highly sensitive for SLE and helps confirm the diagnosis when the clinical picture fits. Other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis usually involve erosive joint disease and lack the characteristic facial rash; Sjogren syndrome centers on dry eyes and mouth rather than a malar rash; dermatomyositis features proximal muscle weakness with a heliotrope or Gottron papules rash rather than a malar eruption.