Skin care, Dermatology and Allergic Diseases

Polymorphous light eruption

Polymorphic light bulbs, also known as polymorphous light eruption, PMLE, and prurigo aestivalis, are a common form of primary image sensitivity that occurs mainly in young adult women in cool spring and summer.

PMLE is caused by a delayed reaction of hypersensitivity to a compound in the skin that is converted to exposure to ultraviolet (UVR) radiation. UVR leads to poor T-cell function and altered production of cytokines in affected individuals. There is a decrease in the normal protective pressure caused by UV on the skin. This has been suggested to be related to estrogen, vitamin D deficiency, or low biome and antimicrobial properties.