PUVA lentigines

PUVA lentigines is a cutaneous condition characterized by an increased number of lentigines in patients treated with PUVA therapy. PUVA therapy is a type of ultraviolet light therapy treatment used for certain skin diseases.

Overview

PUVA lentigines are a type of hyperpigmentation that can occur as a side effect of PUVA therapy. PUVA therapy, or psoralen and ultraviolet A (UVA) therapy, is a treatment method used for various skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. The therapy involves the use of a photosensitizing drug (psoralen) and exposure to UVA light.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of PUVA lentigines is the appearance of small, dark spots on the skin. These spots, or lentigines, are similar in appearance to freckles, but are typically darker and do not fade in the absence of sun exposure. The lentigines can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on areas of the skin that have been exposed to UVA light during PUVA therapy.

Causes

PUVA lentigines are caused by an increase in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, in response to exposure to UVA light. The photosensitizing drug used in PUVA therapy increases the skin's sensitivity to UVA light, which can lead to an overproduction of melanin and the formation of lentigines.

Treatment

Treatment for PUVA lentigines typically involves discontinuing PUVA therapy and managing the skin's exposure to sunlight. In some cases, topical treatments such as hydroquinone or retinoids may be used to lighten the lentigines. However, these treatments can have side effects and their use should be monitored by a healthcare professional.

See also

• PUVA therapy
• Lentigo
• Hyperpigmentation
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Vitiligo

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