Treatment of polymorphic light eruption

Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2003 Oct;19(5):217-27. doi: 10.1034/j.1600-0781.2003.00048.x.

Abstract

Polymorphic light eruption (PLE) is a highly prevalent photosensitivity disorder, estimated to affect 11-21% people in temperate countries. Typically, PLE appears as a recurrent pruritic eruption comprising papules and/or vesicles and/or plaques, which occurs on photo-exposed skin sites following sun exposure, and which heals without scarring. Commoner in females, the aetiology is uncertain, although there is evidence of an immune basis. We perform a review of the prophylaxis and treatment of this condition. While sun protection, corticosteroids and desensitization phototherapy are the mainstays of management, a range of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agents are reported.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Photochemotherapy
  • Photosensitivity Disorders / prevention & control
  • Photosensitivity Disorders / therapy*
  • Phototherapy
  • Primary Prevention
  • Sunlight / adverse effects*
  • Sunscreening Agents / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Sunscreening Agents