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Photopatch testing is indicated in the investigation of patients with eczematous eruptions, affecting mainly light-exposed sites and in those who give a history of worsening of their condition with sun exposure. 3 different protocols are described by the British Photodermatology Group ( Br J Dermatol 1997:136:371–376), 1 of which includes irradiation of allergens 1 day after application and 2 using irradiation of allergens 2 days after application. There is no evidence for superiority of any of these protocols. We reviewed the records of all patients who underwent photopatch testing in Leeds over a 50-month period, who had had the allergens applied in triplicate with 1 set irradiated after 1 day occlusion and another after 2 days. The control was occluded for 2 days. Readings were performed at 2 days and 4 days. 15 of 74 patients photopatch tested during this period had 49 positive results between them. 43 of these were felt to be of current relevance to their clinical problem. 34 of the positive results were indicative of photoallergy. Additional photoallergic reactions were detected following 2 days occlusion and irradiation compared with 1 day occlusion (16 versus 5). In conclusion, our case series suggests that 2 days occlusion before irradiation of allergens is more sensitive at detecting photoallergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides information on the case of a 32-month Pakistani girl diagnosed with Griscelli's syndrome characterized by partial albinism and immunodeficiency. The girl suffers from developmental delay, abdominal pain, and lethargy. She was also diagnosed with acute meningitis and hydrocephalus. The patient's histological examination shows that she has histiocytic tumour with a degree of erythrophagocytosis and lymphophagocytosis. Details about Griscelli's syndrome are also presented.

The article highlights a research on topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) used for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as morphoea. It defines morphoea as a connective-tissue disorder characterized by typical lesions which consist of sclerotic plaques affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissues. A detailed investigation to prove the curability of PDT on morphoea patients is presented.