Polymorphic Light Eruption

Also known as PLE or PME, it is the most common photosensitivity and, after sunburn, is the most common sun-related problem seen by doctors. The incidence has been reported in literature to be approximately 5% in Australia, 10% in the United States, 15% in the United Kingdom and approximately 15% - 20% in the most northerly latitudes of Europe. While it occurs in people with all skin types, it is more common in fair-skinned individuals. Although the disease is regarded to be severely debilitating for patients who suffer from PLE there is a common understanding that only a fraction of patients present to dermatologists for treatment of their symptoms. The main reason for this is the lack of available efficacious therapies other than the administration of high doses of corticosteroids.

PLE is a distressing seasonal skin condition with episodes most commonly beginning in spring and resolving by late-summer or autumn. Symptoms include non-scarring, itchy or burning, red papules, vesicles or plaques and appears on sun-exposed skin 30 minutes to several hours following exposure to sunlight. Symptoms usually resolve over a period of a few days to a week or two.

Treatment is aimed at either preventing or suppressing the disease. Sun avoidance, the use of broad spectrum sunscreens and topical steroids are the first line of therapy used. In more severe cases, phototherapy with or without concomitant systemic steroids is used and in some patients systemic immunosuppressive drugs are employed.

PLE has a considerable impact on the quality of life for many people because of the need to avoid sun exposure during the spring and summer months.

Through clinical studies in 2005 and 2006, afamelanotide (CUV1647) has been shown to offer protection against outbreaks of PLE.

If used preventatively during spring and summer, it should either prevent episodes of PLE or reduce the severity of symptoms experienced by patients.

For more information on PLE, see the Clinuvel Photoprotection PLE page.

References

Ling TC, Gibbs NK, Rhodes LE. "Treatment of Polymorphic Light Eruption". Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed 2003;19:217-27

Tutrone WD, Spann CT, Scheinfeld N, Deleo VA. "Polymorphic Light Eruption", Dermatologic Therapy 2003;16:28-9