Lupus vulgaris is a type of skin tuberculosis (see Diagnostic Code: 6730 Tuberculosis, Pulmonary, chronic, active) that is seen in previously infected and sensitized individuals.

Active tuberculosis is present elsewhere in the lungs or lymph nodes. The condition is two to three times more common in females than males.

The lesions appear in the head and neck area as red-brown plaques. The ear lobes are commonly involved. A few lesions may occur on the extremities, and the trunk is rarely involved.

A diascope is a glass slide used for examining skin lesions. Lupus vulgaris lesions look yellow-brown in color under the slide. Cultures will be done, but it is rare to find acid-fast bacillus in the granulomas. Tests to determine activity of tuberculosis need to be done.

Treatment of the active tuberculosis will be done.

Scarring secondary to the disease and squamous cell cancer can develop in the plaques. Since these are visibly located on the head and neck, there may be problems with body image. Cancer treatment may also be involved.

• When in its active form this condition has a three-year presumptive period. Consider service connection on a presumptive basis as a chronic condition (38 CFR §3.307; §3.309(a)).

• If the condition is inactive, see 38 CFR §4.88c, and §4.89.