Essential fatty acids in the treatment of Darier's disease

In an open prospective study essential fatty acids (EFA) were given orally to patients with Darier's disease, Patients received 12 capsules daily each containing 40 mg gamolenic acid, 315 mg linoleic acid, 20 mg eicosapentaenoic acid, 11 mg docosahexaenoic acid and 10 mg vitamin E. The extent and severity of the disease were assessed using a scoring system. Of 14 patients who completed 12 months of EFA supplementation, 13 improved and 5 with mild involvement cleared after 6-9 months of treatment. Six patients previously experiencing aggravation of the condition with sun exposure showed better sunlight tolerance during the study period. Tolerance of EFA was good and no clinical or laboratory side-effects were observed.