Chronic actinic dermatitis in the elderly: recognition and treatment.
Chronic actinic dermatitis is a condition involving abnormal cutaneous photosensitivity to UV and, often, visible wavelengths. It is rare, but more common in the elderly than in younger populations, with an estimated prevalence of one in 2000 in the > or = 75-year-old population in Tayside, Dundee, Scotland. It usually presents as a dermatitis that maximally, but not exclusively, affects photo-exposed skin. Investigation to confirm the diagnosis and guide management includes phototesting and patch testing. The mainstay of treatment is education about the condition and advice on sunlight and allergen avoidance. Topical corticosteroids and emollients are always required, at least intermittently, and it is sometimes necessary to resort to systemic immunosuppression, usually with corticosteroids or azathioprine.
Dawe
Robert S
RS
Photobiology Unit, Department of Dermatology, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, Scotland. r.s.dawe@dundee.ac.uk
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000368:Aged; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010787:Photosensitivity Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D011379:Prognosis
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents