Pentoxifylline attenuates UVB-induced cutaneous erythema.

BACKGROUND

The mechanism for ultraviolet-B (UVB)-associated cutaneous erythema may involve production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). Pentoxifylline inhibits TNF-alpha production.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of oral pentoxifylline on UVB-induced erythema in humans.

METHODS

Baseline minimum erythema doses (MEDs) for UVB were measured. Subjects received pentoxifylline 400 mg orally every 8 h for 4 doses. MED assays were repeated 2 h after the last dose of pentoxifylline. Pre- and posttreatment MED results were assessed by the paired t test.

RESULTS

Oral administration of pentoxifylline to 7 normal adults elevated the MED for UVB in all 7 individuals.

CONCLUSION

Pentoxifylline may diminish the cutaneous sunburn response to UVB radiation when it is administered prior to ultraviolet exposure.