The Natural History of Chronic Actinic Dermatitis

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
PATIENTS WITH chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD),1 also known as the photosensitivity dermatitis and actinic reticuloid syndrome,2 are abnormally photosensitive to UV (UV-B and UV-A) and often visible wavelengths. Studies from Europe reported that most patients also have allergic contact dermatitis,3-6 although this has been detected in a lower proportion in a North American series.7,8 In our experience, this often-disabling condition improves, to a varying degree, in most patients after investigation and appropriate advice. Sustained improvement usually depends on continued careful UV/visible light and allergen avoidance. Marked improvement, including subjective clearance, has been reported.5 However, true spontaneous resolution (with the return of photosensitivity to within the normal population range confirmed by phototesting) has not been previously described.