On the Use of Phototherapy in the Management of Photodermatoses.

Phototherapy is a proven treatment for various skin disorders, but it is also effective for preventing certain seasonal photodermatoses through the induction of phototolerance (photohardening). Combalia et al. describe their experience with the use of fixed-regimen phototherapy to prevent polymorphic light eruption. The protocol consisted of 8 sessions in which the patients received fixed starting and incremental doses, regardless of skin type and the fact that over half of the patients had some degree of photosensitivity. The treatment produced satisfactory results in 87% of cases, although treatment success does not necessarily mean full or lasting tolerance for the whole summer. Phototherapy is undoubtedly a safe treatment. While short, treatment triggers polymorphic light eruption reactions in a third of patients, but this does not limit treatment or alter prognosis, suggesting that it might be interest-