What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to evaluate if converting MED reference ranges to SED units reduces variability in phototesting results.

February 25, 2026British Journal of Dermatology1 citations

Quantity of ultraviolet radiation required to produce erythema: normal ranges in phototesting

EEEwan EADIE RDRobert S DaweNinewells Hospital SISally H. IbbotsonUniversity of Dundee

Key Points

The aim is to evaluate if converting MED reference ranges to SED units reduces variability in phototesting results.
Analyzed two datasets from non-photosensitive populations
Converted MED values from mJ/cm² to SED units
Assessed inter-waveband variation in phototesting
Converting MED to SED significantly reduces inter-waveband variation
SED reference ranges closely match those from earlier studies
Supports improving consistency in photodiagnostic services with SED-based reference ranges

Abstract

This study evaluates whether expressing minimal erythema dose (MED) reference ranges in Standard Erythema Dose (SED) units reduces variability caused by differing ultraviolet wavelengths in phototesting. Analysis of two non-photosensitive population datasets demonstrated that converting MED from mJ/cm² to SED substantially compresses inter-waveband variation, producing reference ranges closely aligned with the original SED-defining study. These findings support the use of SED-based reference ranges to improve consistency across photodiagnostic services, while emphasising the continued value of establishing local ranges tailored to specific equipment and populations.

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