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Hydroa Vacciniforme
Patient Information
Questions & Answers
Department of Dermatology
The aim of this leaflet is to give you information and answer some commonly asked
questions about Hydroa Vacciniforme.
What is Hydroa Vacciniforme?
Hydroa Vacciniforme is a rare skin condition of unknown cause, in which there is
abnormal sensitivity of the skin to sunlight.
Although patients can be affected throughout the year, the condition is usually worse
in the spring and summer months. After exposure to sunlight a tingling discomfort
develops, followed by blisters of varying size on a red and swollen background. The
blisters are filled with clear fluid which may become crusted and may eventually leave
scars. This normally affects sun-exposed sites, usually the face, ears and backs of
hands. Covered sites can rarely be affected.
Who suffers from Hydroa Vaccinforme?
Hydroa Vacciniforme normally starts in the first decade of life. Males and females are
equally affected.
Is Hydroa Vacciniforme serious?
No, but it can restrict your lifestyle, particularly during the summer months and on
holidays. Once it occurs, patients need to cover up, stay out of the sun, and wait for it
to settle. Through time, most patients can judge how long they can stay out in the
sun. It is important to try and prevent acute flare ups because of the risk of scarring.
How would I know I have Hydroa Vacciniforme?
We are normally able to diagnose Hydroa Vacciniforme from the patient’s history and
examination findings.
Investigations/tests
Investigations are performed to rule out other conditions. These include blood tests
and phototesting.
Phototesting is conducted with light test equipment. Different doses of ultraviolet and
visible light are shone on your back to measure your sensitivity to light.
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Can the rash be prevented?
Many people find that by adopting sun protective measures such as the avoidance of
sunlight between 11am and 3pm and using broad spectrum high protection factor
helps to prevent recurrence.
What treatments are there?
Sun avoidance, hats, clothing and high factor sun screens can help.
Some patients may find a desensitisation course of UVB light therapy helpful. Patients
are treated three times a week for five weeks, and this allows them to stay out longer
in sunlight.
A desensitisation course toughens up your skin with the use of artificial sunlight. The
effect is lost over the winter months, so desensitisation has to be repeated yearly.
Be sure to eat a diet rich in Vitamin D, for example oily fish or take a vitamin D or cod
liver oil supplement if you are avoiding sunlight exposure.
How can I treat the eruption if it occurs?
With the use of steroid ointments or creams to reduce redness and discomfort. Also
the use of moisturiser to soothe the skin.
Can I get rid of Hydroa Vacciniforme?
Some people report a progr essive improvement in late adolescence and it can resolve
by early adulthood.
Is Hydroa Vacciniforme infectious?
No. There is no risk of other people developing the condition after coming into contact
with you.
Can I go abroad?
Yes, but this depends on the severity of your skin state. Many sufferers can manage
with precautions, such as, seeking out the shade, suitable clothing, using a hat and
high factor sunscreens.
Which sunscreen should I use?
We suggest the use of a broad spectrum, high factor (at least SPF30) sun screen,
applied regularly during sunlight exposure. Your doctor will advise you on these.
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Contact Numbers:
Ninewells Hospital
Phototherapy Department
Telephone: 01382 632264
Ward 24
Telephone: 01382 633824
Perth Royal Infirmary
Dermatology Treatment Centre
Telephone: 01738 473516
Stracathro Hospital
Dermatology Treatment Centre
Telephone: 01356 665208
Developed by Dermatology Department and reviewed by patients and staff.
Reviewed: 09/2014 Review: 09/2016 LN0744
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