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Photosensitivity in lupus erythematosus
Noah Scheinfeld1, Vincent A Deleo
1St-Lukes Roosevelt Hospital Center, 1090 Amsterdam Avenue, Suite 11D, New York, NY 10025, USA.
Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine
|September 24, 2004
Summary
Photosensitivity in lupus erythematosus is common but its exact mechanisms are unclear. Research suggests ultraviolet light, genetics, and tumor necrosis factor alpha play roles, particularly in certain lupus variants.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Genetics
Background:
- Lupus erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease with diverse internal and skin manifestations.
- Photosensitivity is a frequent symptom, linked to ultraviolet light exposure, autoantibodies, and genetic factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze the relationship between lupus erythematosus and photosensitivity.
- To explore proposed mechanisms underlying photosensitivity in lupus patients.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review on lupus erythematosus and photosensitivity.
- Analysis of suggested mechanisms linking the two conditions.
Main Results:
- Potential mechanisms include altered autoantibody localization, apoptosis induction, and cytokine upregulation.
- Ultraviolet-generated DNA and tumor necrosis factor alpha involvement are indicated.
Conclusions:
- The precise basis of photosensitivity in lupus remains undefined.
- Subacute and tumid lupus erythematosus show higher association with photosensitivity.
- Anti-Ro antibodies and tumor necrosis factor alpha polymorphisms are implicated in specific lupus variants.