Steroids and sun exposure

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Steroids and Sun Exposure: Effects and Implications

UVB Radiation and Sex Steroid Hormones

Impact on Hormone Levels and Receptor Expression

Exposure to ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation has significant effects on sex steroid hormones and their receptors. Research using the Xiphophorus fish model has shown that a single sublethal dose of UVB can lead to profound changes in circulating sex steroid hormones. Specifically, there are significant decreases in free sex steroids at 6 and 24 hours post-exposure, while conjugated 2-estradiol and 11-ketotestosterone levels increase at these same time points. Additionally, androgen receptor alpha (ARα) expression increases in both male and female skin, although other receptors such as ARβ and estrogen receptors (ERs) do not show significant changes. This rapid hormonal response, particularly in males, may contribute to the observed male bias in sunlight-induced malignant melanoma.

Photodamage and Photoprotection

Chronic Effects of Sun Exposure

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) and visible radiation can lead to chronic inflammatory changes in the skin, commonly referred to as photodamage. This type of damage is responsible for up to 90% of age-associated cosmetic skin problems, overshadowing the normal aging process. Overexposure results in sunburn, and while treatments such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cool baths, and topical steroids can offer mild relief, they do not prevent long-term damage. Regular use of sunscreen from childhood through adolescence can significantly reduce the lifetime incidence of UV-induced skin damage, including nonmelanoma skin cancers, by up to 80%.

Erythema and Anti-inflammatory Treatments

Effectiveness of Steroidal and Non-Steroidal Drugs

In studies involving rats, exposure to UV light for 30 seconds or longer induces a delayed erythema response, which peaks at 24 hours and is followed by scab formation at 48 hours. Both topically and systemically applied steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been shown to reduce erythema when administered immediately after UV exposure. However, steroidal compounds are less effective than NSAIDs, reducing erythema intensity by less than 50% when administered systemically before UV exposure. Additionally, while these treatments can mitigate erythema, they do not prevent scab formation. This suggests that while steroids and NSAIDs can provide some relief from acute UV-induced skin inflammation, they are not entirely effective in preventing the subsequent stages of skin damage.

Conclusion

The interplay between steroids and sun exposure reveals complex biological responses. UVB radiation significantly alters sex steroid hormone levels and receptor expression, potentially contributing to gender biases in skin cancer. Chronic sun exposure leads to extensive photodamage, which can be mitigated by early and consistent use of sunscreen. While steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce acute erythema, their effectiveness is limited, highlighting the need for comprehensive sun protection strategies.