Is polymorphous light eruption serious ?
POLYMORPHOUS LIGHT ERUPTION :
Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is an allergic reaction to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet (UV) light. It usually takes the form of an irritated rash that comes most common skin condition caused by sunlight. A study across Europe found that PMLE affects as much as 18% of the population there.
It’s also called polymorphic light eruption and prurigo aestivalis. PMLE is generally treatable with both home remedies and medical interventions.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF POLYMORPHOUS LIGHT ERUPATION ?
The rash usually doesn’t affect the face. While the rash varies from person to person, the particular rash you get will typically be similar every time it happens.
If you avoid UV light, your rash will heal on its own in a few days to weeks. It won’t leave any scarring. It’s not as common, but you might have additional symptoms, like:
While the causes of PMLE are still under investigation, the rash is brought on by UV light. It’s important to note that, while UVA exposure is the typical cause, the rash can be a result of UVA or UVB exposure. This means that glass windows won’t provide enough protection from the sun to prevent a PMLE reaction.
The exact cause of PMLE isn’t known, but genetics are thought to play a role. Experts have suggested it may also be at least partly associated with:
- hormones, such as estrogen
- low vitamin D
- factors within your microbiome
PMLE, but it’s more common for people with lighter color skin. PMLE is about
PMLE is usually diagnosed based on its symptoms, primarily the appearance of the rash when it occurs, where it’s located, and how quickly it heals.
A skin biopsy might be taken in order to confirm the diagnosis, but this is not always necessary. Blood tests might also be used to rule out other conditions. In some cases, a doctor might expose a small part of your skin to UV light in order to confirm PMLE.
HOW TO TREAT POLYMORPHOUS LIGHT ERUPATION ?
The effect is not fully understood, but PMLE can undergo a process called hardening. This means that, as you’re exposed to UV light, your skin can build up a UV tolerance.
Your first eruption of the year may be the most severe, with following eruptions progressively subtler.
Gradual hardening is one form of treating PMLE. This can be done through careful and measured exposure to sunlight, or it can be achieved through the use of phototherapy Dermatologists can expose you to UV light a few times per week before the sun becomes strong in the spring to help avoid severe PMLE. This should only be done by a professional. This typically has to be repeated after every winter.
After the rash has already appeared, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to help alleviate itchiness or burning.
Other medications that might be used to treat PMLE include :
- oral steroids
- hydroxychloroquine
- Polypodium leucotomos extract
- lycopene
- nicotinamide
- beta carotene
- astaxanthin
- canthaxanthin
Experts recommend using sunscreen that’s SPF 50, broad spectrum (meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays), and water-resistant. You should reapply every 2 hours.
Additionally, the AAD suggests covering your skin from direct sun exposure. There are many clothing choices that can help you do this, such as:
- dense fabrics
- dark or bright colors
- long-sleeve shirts and pants
- wraparound sunglasses with UV protection
- wide-brimmed hats that cover your head, neck, and ears
- shoes that fully cover your feet
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