Abstract
Polymorphic light eruption is the most common idiopathic photodermatosis occurring after the first intense sunlight exposure. The prevention is very important management strategy of the disease. Basic photoprotective measures (broad spectrum sunscreens; wearing clothing and hats) or natural photohardening with graduate exposure to sunlight in early spring could be a sufficient preventive approach in milder cases. Preventive treatment includes antioxidants, vitamin D, sunscreens containing liposomal DNA repair enzymes, and extract from Polypodium leucotomos. The management of the eruption generally consists of local and systemic corticosteroids, systemic antihistamines, and, only in refractory cases, immunosuppressive agents (azathioprine, cyclosporine, and antimalarials) could be administrated. Afamelanotide is a novel promising treatment agent for an induction of photoadaptation that can replace the need of prophylactic phototherapy. Targeting IL-31 would be future treatment option for relieving itch and improving the quality of life of patients suffering from recurrent sunlight eruption.
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Further Reading
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Kadurina, M., Bocheva, G., Kazandjieva, J. (2023). Polymorphic Light Eruption. In: Katsambas, A.D., Lotti, T.M., Dessinioti, C., D'Erme, A.M. (eds) European Handbook of Dermatological Treatments. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-15130-9_75
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