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Erythropoietic protoporphyria. IV. Protection from sunlight
British Medical Journal
|March 21, 1970
Summary
Dihydroxyacetone and lawsone in a vanishing cream effectively protected erythropoietic protoporphyria patients from sunlight. This topical treatment enabled patients to transition from indoor to outdoor living by creating a UV light filter.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Photomedicine
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) causes severe photosensitivity.
- Patients with EPP often lead restricted indoor lives due to sun avoidance.
- Novel photoprotective strategies are needed for EPP management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the photoprotective efficacy of dihydroxyacetone and lawsone in EPP patients.
- To compare the effectiveness of a vanishing cream base versus an alcohol/water solution for topical application.
Main Methods:
- Dihydroxyacetone and lawsone were formulated into a vanishing cream and an alcohol/water solution.
- The vanishing cream was applied topically to EPP patients.
- Photoprotection was assessed by patient response to sunlight exposure.
Main Results:
- The vanishing cream formulation provided significant protection against sunlight in EPP patients.
- The 50% isopropyl alcohol/water solution did not offer adequate photoprotection.
- The topical formulation induced a chemically induced ultraviolet light filter in the stratum corneum.
Conclusions:
- Dihydroxyacetone and lawsone in a vanishing cream base represent a viable topical photoprotective agent for EPP.
- This formulation can improve the quality of life for EPP patients by enabling outdoor activity.
- The stratum corneum's ability to act as a UV filter is enhanced by this treatment.