Xeroderma pigmentosa

:: Definition :: Images :: Causes :: Symptoms :: Treatment

Search results last updated: 5/9/2009

xeroderma pigmentosa - Definition: (Source: MedLinePlus)

Xeroderma pigmentosa is a rare condition passed down through families in which the skin and the tissue covering the eye is extremely sensitive to the ultraviolet part of sunlight. ...
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xeroderma pigmentosa - Images (Source: MedLinePlus)

Chromosomes and DNA

Causes of xeroderma pigmentosa (Source: MedLinePlus)

Ultraviolet light -- such as that found in sunlight -- damages the genetic material (DNA) in skin cells. Normally, the body repairs this damage. But in persons with xeroderma pigmentosa, the body does not fix the damage. As a result, the skin gets very thin and patches of varying color (splotchy pigmentation) appear. The condition also causes spidery blood vessels in the skin ( telangiectasia ) and skin cancer. Skin cancer often occurs before the child is 5 years old. ... [ read more.. ]

Symptoms of xeroderma pigmentosa (Source: MedLinePlus)

Sunburn that does not heal after just a little bit of sun exposure; Blistering after just a little bit of sun exposure; Spider-like blood vessels under the skin; Patches of discolored skin that get worse; Crusting of the skin; Scaling of the skin; Oozing raw skin surface; Discomfort when being in bright light ( photophobia ). ... [ read more.. ]

xeroderma pigmentosa - Conventional Treatments (Source: MedLinePlus)

Children with this condition require total protection from sunlight. Even the light coming through window s and fluorescent bulbs is dangerous. When the person must go in the sun, protective clothing should be worn. High protection (SPF 30 or greater) sunscreen and very dark, UV-protected glasses should be worn. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to help prevent certain skin cancers. ... [ read more.. ]

	xeroderma pigmentosa: Health Search Results from the Invisible Web

xeroderma pigmentosa: Health Search Results from the Invisible Web