The effect of beta-carotene in combination with canthaxanthin, Ro 8-8427 (Phenoro), in treatment of polymorphous light eruptions.

50 patients with polymorphous light eruptions with treated with a beta-carotene-canthaxanthin combination, Ro 8-8427 (Phenoro) at a daily dose of 100 mg or placebo for a duration of 10 weeks in a double-blind, randomized, cross-over trial. The effect of treatment was evaluated clinically on the basis of occurrence of pruritus, erythema and eruptions as well as subjectively through the patients own opinion about the condition of their skin. Excellent results after treatment with Ro 8-8427 were achieved in 27 cases and good results in 9, regardless of whether this preparation was the first treatment or the second. The corresponding figures after placebo were 16 and 12, respectively. Similarly, moderate results were achieved in 6 cases after Ro 8-8427 and in 9 cases after placebo. Poor results were achieved in only 3 cases after R0 8-8427 as compared with 8 after placebo. Only a few, mild side effects were observed during the treatment periods.