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Photosensitivity in cutaneous lupus erythematosus
1Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75309-9069, USA.
Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine
|January 4, 2013
Summary
Discerning photosensitivity in cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is challenging. Objective photoprovocation testing and understanding ultraviolet A (UVA)-1 therapy are key for diagnosis and patient management.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Photobiology
Background:
- Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exacerbates cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE).
- Photosensitivity is a diagnostic criterion for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but diagnosis is complicated by broad ACR criteria and delayed lesion onset.
- Accurate photosensitivity assessment is crucial for SLE diagnosis and patient adherence to photoprotection.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review photosensitivity, photoprovocation, and phototherapy in CLE patients.
- Clarify diagnostic challenges and potential therapeutic applications of UVR in lupus.
- Provide insights into objective assessment methods for photosensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review conducted in PubMed.
- Search terms included 'ultraviolet light,' 'lupus erythematosus,' 'photoprovocation,' and 'photosensitivity.'
Main Results:
- Patient self-reporting and broad definitions lead to variable photosensitivity rates in CLE.
- Photoprovocation testing offers objectivity but shows variability due to protocol differences.
- Ultraviolet A (UVA)-1 may offer therapeutic benefits in lupus, supported by animal and human studies, despite UVR's general negative impact.
Conclusions:
- Accurate photosensitivity assessment impacts SLE diagnosis.
- Improved understanding motivates patient adherence to photoprotective measures.
- Photoprovocation and phototherapy warrant further investigation in CLE management.
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