Current aspects of polymorphous light eruptions in Sweden

The prevalence of polymorphous light eruptions (PMLE) in a Swedish pharmaceutical company employing 412 individuals was estimated by the use of a detailed questionnaire, and 397 (96.4%) answered the survey. Their ages ranged from 18 to 65 yr (mean 40.2), and 66% were females. Eighty-three individuals (21%), mainly women (89%), had symptoms consistent with the diagnosis PMLE. Duration of their disease ranged from 1 to 53 yr, mean 14 yr. A positive family history of PMLE was surprisingly common (46%). Their threshold for sun tolerance was fairly high. They required rather high doses of sunlight to trigger their eruptions, 42% from 30 min to 2 h, and 45% greater than 2 h of solar irradiation. Only 3% had consulted a physician for their PMLE. A hardening phenomenon occurred in 84%. The PMLE group included habitual sunbathers (70%). A fair complexion was common in the PMLE group, 40% having skin types I and II, but as many as 59% had skin type III. Individuals with no light sensitivity had skin type I and II in 22%, and had skin type III in 69% of cases. In conclusion, PMLE is a common disorder and milder forms seem to be more prevalent than earlier described in northern countries such as Sweden.