Comparison of Demographic and Photobiological Features of Chronic Actinic Dermatitis in Patients With Lighter vs Darker Skin Types

Abstract

Are there differences in demographic and photobiological features between people of darker and lighter skin types with chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD)?Findings: Retrospective review found darker skin type patients with CAD present at a younger age and with reversed sex ratio compared to lighter skin type patients, although phototest reactions are equally severe. Photopatch reactions are also commonly seen in patients with CAD.Meaning: In contrast to what is classically known about CAD, darker skin type patients are more frequently female and may present at much earlier age. Photopatch reactions are common and can be safely performed in CAD.

Increased incidence of chronic actinic dermatitis in relation to climate changes and air pollution during the past 15 years in Korea

“…found that the majority of outpatients had reduced MEDs in broad spectra, mainly UV‐B and partly UV‐A, with visible ray in the minority. This fact was corroborated by other studies in Korea, Greece, Australia, and the USA …”

“…DLQI scores for the week prior to presentation were higher in summer than in other seasons, indicating that large number of patients experienced poor quality of life. In other photodermatoses, there were many patients who had high DLQI scores and impairment of quality of life in the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom …”

“…In other photodermatoses, there were many patients who had high DLQI scores and impairment of quality of life in the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom. 6,15 CAD can affect individuals of all skin types throughout the world. However, darker-skinned people, including Asians, are more commonly affected; a report from the USA commented on the more common occurrence in Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI.…”

“…CAD is a representative example of the chronic effect of cumulative UV irradiation . Although CAD affects people of all skin colors, it is more common in darker‐skinned individuals . Additionally, the incidence of CAD has been increasing, especially in Northeast Asia, and is worse in the summer when sun exposure is greatest …”

Polymorphic light eruption with severe abnormal phototesting sensitivity (PLESAPS)

“…Indeed, it is of interest to review a recent report of CAD, which included 29 patients, with median age at presentation of 40 years, who were of higher skin phototypes V and VI, as the majority had a history of atopic disease or preceding eczema of other type and photoexposed site dermatitis. 10 This again emphasizes the clear differences from our patient group, with respect to demographics and clinical characteristics.…”