Sun Safety Struggles Among Children with Xeroderma Pigmentosum in a Tropical Low-Income Country

Abstract

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by increased sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation, leading to severe skin manifestations and a higher risk of early-onset malignancies. Previous studies from temperate climate countries with sound economic levels showed adequate photoprotection compliance among pediatric XP patients. However, no studies have assessed photoprotection compliance among children with XP living in tropical and low-economic settings. This article reports a low photoprotection compliance of three pediatric XP patients residing in Indonesia, a tropical low-income country. The three patients began experiencing their first symptoms in the first year of life with a gap of 1-3 years until they were diagnosed with XP by dermatologists. Photoprotection measures were promptly initiated. However, challenges related to the hot climate and low economic status led to lower levels of photoprotection compliance. Ultimately, the three patients developed UV-associated skin malignancy at early ages. This report underscores the challenges of maintaining a favorable prognosis for XP patients in low-income tropical countries.