Papulopustular rosacea: prevalence and relationship to photodamage.

BACKGROUND

The prevalence and pathogenesis of rosacea is uncertain. Previously, studies used varying definitions of disease and have not explored the relationship of its prevalence to ultraviolet (UV) exposure or photodamage.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the prevalence of papulopustular rosacea (PPR) and its relationship to UV radiation exposure in 1000 randomly selected Irish individuals.

METHODS

A total of 1000 individuals (500 with low UV exposure and 500 with high UV exposure) were examined. PPR was diagnosed using a standardized definition and photodamage was assessed using a photodamage scale.

RESULTS

The prevalence of PPR was 2.7%. PPR prevalence was not significantly related to photodamage or UV exposure.

LIMITATIONS: The power to compare UV exposure among those with and without PPR was limited.

CONCLUSIONS

PPR prevalence in Ireland was 2.7%. UV radiation exposure does not appear to affect the prevalence of PPR.