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Treatment of polymorphous light eruption with nicotinamide: a pilot study
The British Journal of Dermatology
|July 1, 1986
Summary
Oral nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) effectively prevented sun-induced lesions in most patients with polymorphous light eruption (PLE). This suggests a link between tryptophan metabolism and PLE, which nicotinamide may help correct.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Nutritional Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Polymorphous light eruption (PLE) is a common skin condition triggered by UV radiation.
- The exact cause of PLE is not fully understood, but metabolic factors are suspected.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential therapeutic effect of oral nicotinamide in patients with PLE.
- To explore the role of tryptophan metabolism in the aetiology of PLE.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 42 patients diagnosed with PLE.
- Treatment with oral nicotinamide at a dosage of 3 grams daily for two weeks.
- Assessment of lesion development after sun exposure.
Main Results:
- Twenty-five out of 42 patients (approximately 60%) remained lesion-free.
- Patients tolerated the treatment well, with no significant adverse events reported.
- The results suggest a positive correlation between nicotinamide supplementation and prevention of PLE flares.
Conclusions:
- Nicotinamide may be a beneficial treatment for preventing polymorphous light eruption.
- Abnormalities in tryptophan metabolism could be a key factor in PLE development.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.