What skin condition involves an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy skin?

The skin condition that involves an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy skin is lupus erythematosus. In this condition, the body mistakenly identifies its own skin cells as foreign, leading to inflammation and damage. This autoimmune response can cause a range of symptoms including skin rashes, often described as a "butterfly" rash across the cheeks and nose, as well as lesions on other parts of the body. Lupus can also affect internal organs, highlighting its systemic nature and the seriousness of the immune response.

In contrast, psoriasis is primarily characterized by rapid skin cell production leading to thick, scaly patches due to a different type of immune response. Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin caused by various triggers (like allergens or irritants) rather than an attack on healthy skin. Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disorder that leads to dry, scaly skin, but it does not involve an autoimmune process. Therefore, lupus erythematosus is the condition most closely associated with the immune system's attack on healthy skin.