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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/2725.htm
Polymorphic light eruption on the arm
Overview
The cause of polymorphous light eruption is unknown. It usually appears 1 to 2 days following exposure to sunlight and may last up to one week. It is more common during adolescence and young adulthood, and occurs more frequently in females. It appears as recurrent redness (erythematous) and/or blistered patches (plaques). It may be an inherited disease in certain Native American groups.
Review Date 6/3/2025
Updated by: Ramin Fathi, MD, FAAD, Director, Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, Phoenix, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
