Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare genetic disorder that causes hypersensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) light. Symptoms usually affect the parts of your body that are regularly exposed to the sun, such as your face, arms and lips.
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Xeroderma pigmentosum characteristically demonstrates severe photosensitivity, skin pigmentary changes, malignant tumor development, and occasionally progressive neurologic degeneration.
People with XP usually start showing symptoms in early childhood. They may get blistering sunburns after even just a few minutes in the sun.
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The life expectancy for xeroderma pigmentosum can vary. Many people with the condition have a shortened lifespan from developing skin cancer at a very young age. Taking steps to prevent sun damage early in life can increase the chances of living longer.
The disease affects about 1 in 100,000 worldwide. By region, it affects about 1 in 370 in India, 1 in 20,000 in Japan, 1 in 250,000 people in the United States and 1 in 430,000 in Europe. It occurs equally commonly in males and females.
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