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Health library/Xeroderma pigmentosum

Rare skin disorders / RARE CONDITION

Xeroderma pigmentosum

Also known as: DeSanctis-Cacchione syndrome, XP

Xeroderma pigmentosum impairs repair of ultraviolet-related DNA damage. Extreme UV sensitivity greatly increases skin and eye cancer risk, with neurological features in some people.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Severe sun sensitivity
  • Early freckling
  • Skin changes or cancers
  • Eye irritation or damage

Understanding care

Clinical care may include specialist UV-protection planning and regular skin, eye and neurological review. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Arrange prompt review of new or changing skin lesions. Eye pain or sudden vision change needs urgent assessment; UV-protection planning belongs with the treating specialist team.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

A child and a caring grown-up reading a picture book together

LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Xeroderma pigmentosum — First AID health library