Do you also get sunburned? Let's talk about Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE)!

Do you sometimes experience skin irritation, redness, and small blisters after a short time in the sun? Or do you feel like you're "allergic to the sun" as some people say? This is actually a problem that many people have. Today we're going to talk about a condition caused by this type of sun-sensitive skin, which is called polymorphous light eruption, or PMLE.

What is Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE)?

Simply put, PMLE is a common rash that occurs on the skin after exposure to sunlight, that is, ultraviolet light (UV light). The word 'polymorphous' means 'various'. This means that this rash can look different for each person. For some, it may look like small red blisters, for others it may look like large red spots, or sometimes it may look like a blister. 'Eruption' means that this rash appears suddenly, suddenly. It can often start within 30 minutes of exposure to UV light. Some people also call it 'sun allergy' or 'sun poisoning', but that is not exactly a medical term.

How common is this condition called PMLE?

This condition, called PMLE, is actually more common than you might think. It is the most common skin condition caused by UV rays. Worldwide, it is estimated that about 15 out of every 100 people are affected by this condition. So if you have something like this, know that you are not alone.

Why does PMLE occur? What is the cause?

Experts still don't know exactly what causes this. But they think it's something like this: When we're exposed to the sun, UV rays change some of the compounds in our skin. Then, our immune system reacts to these new, changed compounds, as if they were an enemy. The current theory is that this rash is caused by that reaction.

What kind of light exposure can cause PMLE?

PMLE is mainly caused by ultraviolet light, or UV rays. Sometimes, visible light can also cause this condition, but it is less common.

Now there are two types of UV rays:

• UVA rays: These are the type of rays that can penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. They are responsible for about 9 out of 10 cases of PMLE.
• UVB rays: These can damage the skin, and sunburn is one of the reasons for this.

So, this rash can be caused by just exposure to the sun, as well as by artificial sources of UV rays. For example, it can also be caused by tanning beds, which some people use to get a fairer skin tone.

Who is at higher risk of developing PMLE?

This condition called PMLE often starts in the spring. That is, it is most often seen when the weather has been dry for a while and then the sun starts to shine again. Just think, even in our country, sometimes when the sun is hot, you can see more of this kind of thing.

It can develop in anyone of any age, gender, race, or ethnicity. However, some people are more likely to develop it:

• For women: This condition is more common in women than in men.
• For people between the ages of 20 and 40: It is common among people in this age group.
• If someone in your family has PMLE: If someone in your family has this type of sun allergy, you are more likely to develop it too. This means there may be a family history.
• For those living in areas with low sun exposure: This can occur when you are not exposed to the sun regularly, for example, when you suddenly come on vacation from a cold country to a sunny country like ours.

What does PMLE look like when it develops? What are the symptoms?

The main symptom of PMLE is an itchy rash that appears on sun-exposed areas of the body. This rash can come in many different forms. That's why it's called 'polymorphic'.

• Small red bumps may appear in clusters.
• It may appear as larger red patches.
• Sometimes it can even look like blisters.

These skin spots usually appear within a few hours of exposure to the sun. But sometimes they can appear even after a few days. Imagine, if you went out in the sun this morning, you might see this rash by the evening or the next morning.

In rare cases, PMLE can also cause symptoms like:

• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting

Typically, PMLE symptoms last for two to three days. However, if you continue to be exposed to UV rays while you have the rash, it can last longer. Therefore, it is very important to be careful of the sun while you have the rash.

What parts of the body are most affected by PMLE?

This rash, called PMLE, can appear on any part of the body that is exposed to the sun . But surprisingly, it rarely appears on the face. Perhaps because the face is somewhat accustomed to constant exposure to the sun.

This rash is most often seen:

• The upper part of the chest - especially if you wear a dress with a V-shaped neckline, this is where it will be exposed.
• Neck
• Arms - especially the back of the arms.
• Legs

There is a type of PMLE called 'juvenile spring eruption'. This is seen especially in the earlobes of children, most often boys . It is most common in the spring.

How do you know exactly if you have PMLE?

The main way to diagnose PMLE is to take a complete health history and do a skin examination. Your doctor will ask you questions like, "How long has this rash been going on?", "Does it only come on when you're in the sun?", and "Does anyone in your family have it?"

Sometimes, a skin biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis. This means that a small sample of tissue is taken from the skin and examined under a microscope. This can also help rule out other skin conditions.

Your doctor may also order a blood test to make sure you don't have another condition that causes a rash when you go out in the sun, such as an autoimmune disease like lupus erythematosus.

What are the treatments for PMLE?

The good news is that this condition called PMLE often resolves on its own without any treatment.

However, people with PMLE should avoid sun exposure as much as possible. It is especially important to minimize sun exposure during the hours of 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when UV rays are most intense.

Also:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (at least SPF 30). Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Wearing sun-protective clothing (such as long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses).

These things can reduce exposure to UV rays.

Some people benefit from a treatment called phototherapy. This involves gradually exposing the skin to artificial UV rays under the supervision of a doctor in a controlled manner, which reduces the skin's sensitivity. This can help prevent future rashes. It's like gradually acclimating to the sun.

The PMLE rash begins to fade within a few days and disappears without treatment within a few weeks. The rash does not cause scars. However, the rash can worsen with continued exposure to sunlight or UV rays.

Imagine you're planning a vacation to a sunny location, such as a beach. Your doctor may prescribe an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone, for a few days to reduce the chance of a rash.

Some people gradually build up a tolerance to UV rays by spending time outdoors or undergoing phototherapy. Doctors call this 'hardening the skin' . But this should only be done under the supervision of a doctor. Don't try to do it yourself and damage your skin.

If the rash is severe, meaning the itching is unbearable, or the rash has spread, your doctor may prescribe treatments such as:

• Antihistamines: These help reduce itching.
• Hydroxychloroquine: Although it is a drug used for malaria, it is also used for PMLE, especially in severe cases.
• Immunosuppressants: These are given in very severe cases that have not responded to other treatments.
• Topical corticosteroids or tacrolimus ointment: These are applied to the rash. They reduce inflammation and itching.

What is the outlook for someone with PMLE?

This is a recurring condition. It can last for years. It can flare up every spring. But the good news is that the severity of the condition often decreases over time. In some people, it may even go away completely as they get older.

When should you see a doctor?

If you develop a skin rash that you can't find a cause for, or if you notice changes in your skin , be sure to see a doctor for advice. Especially if this happens after going out in the sun, talk about it.

What should I ask my doctor?

If you develop a rash shortly after exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays, ask your doctor, "Could I have this condition called polymorphous light eruption (PMLE)?" Also, ask, "What should I do about this?" and "What are the best ways to protect myself from the sun?"

Can PMLE cause skin cancer?

No. PMLE is a benign/noncancerous condition. This rash does not increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

However, the most important thing to remember is that frequent and excessive exposure to UV rays increases the risk of skin cancer.

So, the sun protection measures you take to prevent PMLE (e.g., wearing sunscreen, covering up with clothing, and staying out of the sun during strong sunlight) also reduce your risk of skin cancer. That's like killing two birds with one stone!

So, what are the things we need to remember from all of this? (Take-Home Message)

Okay, we've talked about a lot of things about this PMLE. In short:

• PMLE is an itchy rash that occurs in people who are sensitive to the sun, especially UV rays.
• This can come in different forms for each person (small blisters, large spots).
• It often starts in the spring , and then gradually subsides as the skin adjusts.
• Although the exact cause is not known , it is thought to be a reaction of the immune system to changes in the skin caused by UV rays.
• It often resolves without treatment, but it is very important to protect yourself from the sun and wear sunscreen.
• If it is severe, you can seek medical treatment . You can also strengthen your skin with things like phototherapy.
• This is not cancer, but protecting yourself from the sun can help prevent skin cancer.
• If you have these symptoms, don't be shy or afraid to see a doctor . They will help you.

So, the sun gives us good things like vitamin D, but sometimes it can be a little harsh on our skin. The most important thing is to be aware of your skin and take the necessary precautions. If you have any further questions about this, don't forget to talk to a doctor.

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