This rare skin condition occurs due to sun exposure

Dr Indur Ramchandani, director, dermatology, Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre said, “Actinic prurigo occurs when affected individuals are exposed to long and short-waves ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB). However, the reason why this reaction between sunlight and skin happens is still unknown. Current research shows that it may be a genetic disease as a family history of the condition has been found in some patients. Some studies have shown there to be an increased frequency of Human Leukocyte Antigen.”

Signs and symptoms

It usually appears hours or days following sun exposure. (Source: Freepik)

The expert said that it is characterised by an intensely itchy rash, which consists of an eruption of small, scratched, red, and inflamed papules, thickened plaques and nodules. “It usually appears hours or days following sun exposure. Some patients also report symptoms of chronic scratching, ulcers, weeping, crusting, and scaling,” he added.

Actinic prurigo may affect people of all skin types, but it is more common in people of Latin American and American Indian descent with darker skin types. People of all ages can be affected; however, one-third of patients are children.

Treatment

While there is no cure for actinic prurigo, it can be prevented by avoiding sun exposure. “The condition usually worsens in the hottest months of the years, so it is important to adhere to sun protection strategies to reduce the risk of outbreak. Proper sun protection includes avoiding sunlight by staying indoors or in shades areas, wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, wide-brim hats and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen,” said Dr Ramchandani.

Some medications can also help relieve the symptoms of actinic prurigo, according to the dermatologist:

*Topical corticosteroids
*Emollients
*Systemic immunosuppressants
*Antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine

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