Association of Sunlight Exposure and Photoprotection Measures with Clinical Outcome in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

摘要: This study was designed to explore the relationship of sunlight exposure and ultraviolet (UV) light protection measures with clinical outcome in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A structured questionnaire administered sixty Puerto Rican SLE patients, assess their attitudes behavior regarding photoprotection measures. Medical records were reviewed evaluate that included: manifestations, number SLE-related hospitalizations, exacerbations pharmacologic treatment. Almost all (98.3%) patients well acquainted effects on disease activity. Two thirds exposed direct for an average less than one hour per day 33.3% or more. Thirty (50%) reported use sunscreen, sun protective factor 15 greater, when sunlight. Less 40% regularly wore hat long-sleeves clothes protect from Although there some differences between groups different times, none reached statistical significance. Also, no significant found regards clothes. However, used sunscreen had significantly lower renal involvement (13.3 vs 43.3%), thrombocytopenia 40%), hospitalizations (26.7 vs. 76.7%), requirement cyclophosphamide treatment (6.7 30%) did not it (P < 0.05). We conclude associated a better our patients. These findings further support importance benefits photoprotective SLE.