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Sunscreens and photoprotection in lupus erythematosus
Author(s) -
Lehmann P.,
Ruzicka T.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
dermatologic therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.595
H-Index - 68
eISSN - 1529-8019
pISSN - 1396-0296
DOI - 10.1046/j.1529-8019.2001.014002167.x
Subject(s) - photoprotection , medicine , photosensitivity , dermatology , sun protection factor , ultraviolet radiation , sun exposure , sunscreening agents , sunburn , subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus , disease , connective tissue disease , autoimmune disease , pathology , skin cancer , chemistry , physics , botany , photosynthesis , quantum mechanics , cancer , radiochemistry , biology
Sunlight can induce or exacerbate cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus (LE) and, furthermore, may exert specific effects on the complex pathogenesis of this disease. Sunscreens and photoprotection are therefore an important issue in the management of LE patients. Especially in subacute cutaneous LE (SCLE) and LE tumidus photosensitivity is a major provocation factor. However, no controlled studies exist demonstrating the effects of consequent photoprotection on the disease activity in ultraviolet (UV)‐sensitive LE patients. Measurements and definitions of protective capacity of sunscreens do not include the protective efficacy against the induction of photosensitivity diseases. Taking photoreactivity of LE into consideration it is important to prescribe a broad‐band absorbing sunscreen, which protects against UVB as well as UVA and exerts a high sun protection factor (SPF> 15). Future developments of sunscreen products should take the current knowledge on the pathophysiology of UV‐induced LE into consideration in order to achieve more specifically tailored products. Further measures to protect the skin in LE include sun‐protective clothing and education on behavioral attitudes aimed not only at sun protection but also avoidance of other physical and mechanical injuries.