Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE ) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can be devastating diseases with a significant impact on quality of life. DLE is currently treated with potent topical steroids, antimalarials, and immunosuppressants. Recent research has determined that DLE is a Th1 mediated disease. There is increasing evidence that JAK inhibitors such as tofacitinib can treat the Th1 mediated diseases such as alopecia areata. Therefore the goal of this study is to determine if JAK inhibitors can successfully treat DLE. Tofacitinib has not previously been studied in DLE. This will be a pilot study that is descriptive for early clinical impressions and molecular mechanisms in order to obtain initial information to potentially design an appropriately -powered phase 2 or 3 study for efficacy of JAK inhibitors that could take place in the future
