hydroa vaccineforme

Last reviewed 01/2018

Hydroa vaccineforme is a very rare disorder characterised by recurrent crops of vesicles ("hydroa") which tend to heal by scarring ("vaccineforme"). Lesions occur on sites exposed to light, particularly, the ear rims, nose, and dorsa of the hands. They develop within 1-2 days of exposure and may be accompanied by keratoconjunctivitis. The condition occurs in children and usually remits at puberty.

Hydroa vacciniforme may be associated with a latent Epstein-Barr virus infection (1).

Treatment for this disease is difficult; absorbent sunscreens and restricted UVR exposure may help. Narrowband UVB phototherapy may be useful in some cases (2).

Reference:

• (1) Mendoza N et al. Mucocutaneous manifestations of Epstein-Barr virus infection. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2008;9(5):295-305.
• (2) Jury CS et al. Narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy in children. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2006;31(2):196-9
• (3) Am J Clin Dermatol. 2002;3(4):239-46.