Polymorphic light eruption is the most common form of immunologically mediated photosensitivity dermatoses. It is postulated that there is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to an endogenous antigen expressed after exposure to sunlight or artificial sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. If you can, avoid the sun when its at its strongest during the middle of the day. It is sometimes referred to as "sun poisoning" or "sun allergy". What Causes White Spots to Form on Your Nipple? Schweintzger N, Gruber-Wackernagel A, Reginato E, Bambach I, Quehenberger F, Byrne SN, Wolf P. Br J Dermatol. Most UV light you are exposed to comes from the sun. This activity reviews the pathophysiology of polymorphic light eruption and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in its management. [15] Hence, it is less common near the equator. window.__mirage2 = {petok:"qA58IQ768GeOLKFViL7kQqLnoC_jvex_EJRsbmd4PEw-1800-0"}; Phototesting is rarely necessary. It typically comes back each year when a person begins to have more sun on their skin. The clinical presentation and the presence of massive dermal oedema can be helpful features. [1], The prevalence of polymorphic light eruption varies worldwide. This abnormal response to ultraviolet (UV) light means affected patients develop an inflammatory response to an endogenous photo-induced antigen. [2], The photosensitivity connected with lupus erythematosus is the main condition that may appear like PLE. [2], The rash may persist for many days to a couple of weeks,[5] resolving spontaneously without scarring as long as further sunlight exposure is avoided. Your provider may refer to this as hardening the skin. You should only attempt this type of desensitization while under your providers care. Keywords: Polymorphous light eruption is a common photosensitive reaction to UV and sometimes visible light. J Am Acad Dermatol. See additional information. This should only be done by a professional. Recently appearing lesions may show neutrophils. Lesions may vary from patient to patient; however, spontaneous resolution (on cessation of sun exposure) is often a unifying trait. Polymorphous light eruption is a rash caused by sun exposure in people who have developed sensitivity to sunlight. Accurate diagnosis relies on the exclusion of other photosensitive conditions. Twin studies indicate a polygenic model may explain familial clustering. Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is a common skin rash generally caused by exposure to the suns ultraviolet (UV) light. PLE is a rash that develops in response to sunlight exposure. PMLE is not contagious. Accessed Dec. 9, 2021. Please enable it to take advantage of the complete set of features! Insight into immunocytes infiltrations in polymorphous light eruption. Polymorphous light eruption This eruption is a reaction to sunlight (primarily UVA light) that is not fully understood. [11], PLE appears on areas of the skin newly exposed to sunlight such as the visible part of the neckline, backs of hands, arms and legs, and feet, but less commonly the face. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2007.04.035. We avoid using tertiary references. [2] Due to its many clinical appearances, it is named polymorphic or polymorphous and the terms are used interchangeably. Variants include juvenile spring eruption (vesicles on the ears of young boys) and PMLE sine eruption (pruritus on sun-exposed skin without visible skin changes). American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD). Prevention of Polymorphic Light Eruption Afforded by a Very High Broad-Spectrum Protection Sunscreen Containing Ectoin. (2021). Unauthorized use of these marks is strictly prohibited. Vitamin D insufficiency, the role of estrogen in preventing UV-induced immune suppression, and dysregulated antimicrobial factors may be relevant. Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing me? Accessed Dec. 9, 2021. Ultraviolet radiation causes less immunosuppression in patients with polymorphic light eruption than in controls. It has been noted that PMLE appears to be less frequent and severe in women after menopause. Hlzle E, Plewig G, von Kries R, Lehmann P. J Invest Dermatol. She spent most of her time on the beach, in the shade. PMLE affects 10-15% of the US population [], but this number may be higher due to underreporting or patients not seeking medical attention.A Pubmed review reveals, to the best of our knowledge, the first case of a 41-year-old Hispanic female diagnosed with PMLE. Polymorphic light eruption. It is more common in people with lighter skin. Consider wearing a broad-brimmed hat, which provides more protection than does a cap or visor. Juvenile spring eruption is a variant of PMLE. [15], Oxidative stress and the modification of the redox status of the skin has been implicated in the expression of PLE. Polymorphous light eruption (PLE) is the commonest immuno-mediated photodermatosis. The .gov means its official. Willan House, 4 Fitzroy Square, London, W1T 5HQ | admin@bad.org.uk | +44 (0)020 7383 0266 The eruption is treated with topical corticosteroids with some benefit in reducing symptoms and duration. [6], People vary in the amount of sun exposure needed to trigger the rash. You cant catch it from someone else who has it, and if you have it, you cant pass it to others. Some people may experience symptoms for longer than this, potentially all summer if they continue getting sun exposure, but this is uncommon. PLE causes small bumps or raised plaques on the skin. There is no cure for PLE, but the condition often gets better on its own in a few days. Using high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing helps minimize UV light exposure. After the rash has already appeared, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to help alleviate itchiness or burning. Merck Manual Professional Version. Majoie IML, van Weelden H, Sybesma IM, Coenraads PJ, Sigurdsson V. Polymorphous light eruption-like skin lesions in welders caused by ultraviolet C light. Exposure may be to sunlight or to an artificial or medical source of ultraviolet radiation.[3]. [10], Fever, fatigue and headaches have been previously associated with the eruption, but are rare. PMLE is a benign (noncancerous) condition. The symptoms are usually self-limiting and go away after a few days. [2][6] At these areas, there may be feelings of burning[9] and severe itching. Blood tests might also be used to rule out other conditions. (2019). It wont leave any scarring. He or she may refer you to a specialist in skin diseases (dermatologist). Epub 2014 Mar 27. J Am Acad Dermatol. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Dermatologic clinics. Polymorphic light eruption is a skin reaction that appears after exposure to direct sunlight or other forms of UV light. [10] Further episodes of the irritable rash occur several hours to days following subsequent sun exposure. Summarize the importance of improving care coordination among interprofessional team members to improve outcomes for patients affected by polymorphic light eruption. It occurs 1-2 days after intense sun exposure. The rash can take many forms. Spongiosis, vesicle formation, and liquefaction degeneration may be seen dependent on the clinical signs. Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE). (n.d.). Patterson JW. Fig. Polymorphous light eruption is the most common skin disease resulting from UV light exposure. Dermatoses resulting from physical factors. Endogenous estrogen exacerbates UV-induced inflammation and photoaging in mice. In: Weedon's Skin Pathology. If you have a rash in addition to other symptoms that are more serious, you may need emergency care. Juvenile spring eruption of the ears Is likely a form of PMLE. For polymorphous light eruption, some basic questions to ask your health care provider include: Your health care provider will ask you a number of questions about your symptoms and your medical history, such as: Avoid sun exposure whenever possible. Accessibility 2017 Nov 1;35(6):751-757. doi: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2017.07.006. A study across Europe found that PMLE affects as much as 18 percent of the population there. HHS Vulnerability Disclosure, Help Polymorphous light eruption (PLE) is the commonest immuno-mediated photodermatosis. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Usually, UV radiation suppresses the immune system, lowering inflammation. The rash most commonly appears on your: Juvenile spring eruption is a type of PMLE that tends to affect the ears of children (mostly boys). A provocative test in which UV radiation is used to confirm the diagnosis. The rash usually appears as tiny, inflamed bumps or slightly raised patches of skin. These conditions include: Treatment of polymorphous light eruption usually isn't needed because the rash usually goes away on its own within 10 days. In polymorphic light eruption, sections show a superficial and deep perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate (figure 1). [7] The resulting itch can cause significant suffering. Too much sun exposure, smoking, allergic reactions, and even lip sucking can lead to. Its important to note that, while UVA exposure is the typical cause, the rash can be a result of UVA or UVB exposure. Is it possible this condition is related to a more serious illness? Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information. Dark lips are often the result of hyperpigmentation. Broad spectrum sunscreens and antioxidants, photohardening with PUVA or narrow band UVB may be beneficial to prevent the disease. Morphology variesbetweenindividualsand can include macules, vesicles, lichenoid plaques, prurigo papules and targetoid lesions resembling erythema multiforme. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Norris PG, Morris J, McGibbon DM, Chu AC, Hawk JL. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. [10] It is also thought that skin microbiome or microbial elements could be involved in pathogenesis of the disease [13][14], PLE can be provoked by UVA or UVB (chief cause of sunburn) rays, meaning it can be triggered even by sunlight through glass. Idiopathic photodermatosis; Immunomediated photodermatosis; Minimal erythema dose; Photoprovocation tests; Phototests; Polymorphous light eruption; UV light. Sunscreens containing the broad-spectrum UVA absorber, Mexoryl SX, prevent the cutaneous detrimental effects of UV exposure: a review of clinical study results. 2014 Aug;134(8):2290-2293. doi: 10.1038/jid.2014.160. More people experience polymorphic light eruption at high altitude than at sea level.[1]. [3], It is a non-life-threatening and potentially distressing[4] skin condition that is triggered by sunlight and artificial UV exposure[5] in a genetically susceptible person,[6] particularly in temperate climates during the spring and early summer. Bookshelf Polymorphous light eruption (PLE) presents with itchy red small bumps on sun-exposed skin, particularly face, neck, forearms and legs. Polymorphous light eruption (PLE) is a common skin rash that occurs due to sunlight exposure. The rash usually appears as tiny, inflamed bumps or slightly raised patches of skin. Bethesda, MD 20894, Web Policies 1987 Mar;88(3 Suppl):32s-38s. Whos at risk of getting polymorphous light eruption? Seasonal, occurring in spring and early summer and usually disappearing completely in winter. This means that, as youre exposed to UV light, your skin can build up a UV tolerance. Without additional exposure it will heal on its own. [5][6] It is also particularly more prevalent in Central Europe and Scandinavia. Learn more about symptoms, causes, comparisons to other sun-induced conditions, and more, Solar urticaria is often confused for heat rash, but it does not occur due to humidity. PMLE is characterized by recurrent, abnormal, delayed reactions to sunlight, ranging from erythematous papules, papulovesicles, and plaques to erythema multiforme -like lesions on sunlight-exposed surfaces. Phototherapy FOIA Self-care measures that may help ease signs and symptoms include: To lessen the likelihood of recurring episodes of polymorphous light eruption, take the following precautions: Cover up. It looks like reddened skin with raised red spots or small blisters. Avoid sunlight, choose shaded areas if outdoors and sit away from windows. But the severity often improves with time. Polymorphous light eruption. It is rare for people who get sunlight exposure year-round to have PLE. Koulu LM, Laihia JK, Peltoniemi HH, Jansn CT. J Invest Dermatol. (n.d.). There is a genetic susceptibility in 1546% of cases where a positive family history is reported. Oakley AM, et al. Note slight vacuolar alterations of cells and liquefaction degeneration at the dermo-epidermal junction. I took the 1st picture. Polymorphic light eruption is particularly common in places where sun exposure is uncommon, such as Northern Europe, where it is said to affect 10-20% of women holidaying in the Mediterranean area 2 . http://www.aad.org/media-resources/stats-and-facts/prevention-and-care/sunscreens#.UbdQaJzm9lP. Seborrheic dermatitis commonly affects the skin on the chest, causing a red, scaly rash to appear. Figure 4. Its the most common skin condition caused by sunlight. Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is a common acquired disease entity belonging to the idiopathic photodermatoses. PLE is considered as a delayed hypersensitivity response to newly UV induced, but still unidentified, antigen(s). Low-dose narrowband UV-B and other forms of phototherapy undertaken in late winter or early skin can reduce the incidence and severity of polymorphous light eruption. arrow-right-small-blue It rarely affects the face. Its most pronounced during the spring and early summer. Long-term course of polymorphic light eruption: A registry analysis. 2. Solar urticaria occurs during or shortly after exposure and resolves within an hour or soof covering up. Erythema multiforme, Pathology of the Skin (Fourth edition, 2012). It's less likely to be repeated as the summer . 2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK. If you avoid UV light, your rash will heal on its own in a few days to weeks. UVB can damage your skin, but UVA penetrates deeper into your skins layers. Polymorphic light eruption pathology codes and concepts, Juvenile spring eruption of the ears. It may affect up to 15% of people worldwide. 2010 Nov;130(11):2578-82. doi: 10.1038/jid.2010.181. Eye. What side effects can I expect from treatment? Polymorphic light eruption (PMLE) is a seasonal, acquired, idiopathic photodermatosisoccurring in spring and early summer. Last night I washed my face and removed eye makeup as usual, but didn't apply hyaluronic acid serum or eye cream. [4], Treatments include prevention with sun avoidance and supervised light therapy, and symptom control with topical steroids. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, a rash will form within a few hours or days. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Description of the condition. Sunscreen: How to help protect your skin from the sun. How is polymorphous light eruption diagnosed? Winter occurrences likely due to solariums (tanning facilities) or a holiday to a sunnier climate. 2010;130(2):6268. Phototoxic reactions 8600 Rockville Pike 5th ed. [15], Other similar appearing conditions are solar urticaria, which has a shorter duration, the eczema-like condition, photosensitive dermatitis,[2] and photosensitivity drug reaction. doi:10.1111/exd.12427. Policy. UV-induced tolerance to a contact allergen is impaired in polymorphic light eruption. . Reddy H, Carmichael AJ, Wahie S. Severity of polymorphic light eruption in pre- and post-menopausal women: a comparative study. The rash may first appear in the spring and diminish as the spring and summer months progress.