XP patient Alex Webb wears a visor when outdoors to protect against UV light
Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare, hereditary skin disorder affecting 1 in 250,000 people.
People with xeroderma pigmentosum are not able to repair the damage caused to their skin by the ultraviolet (UV) part of daylight. They can burn easily or develop abnormal freckles on skin that is exposed to UV. They can also develop eye, nerve or brain problems, and are more likely to develop skin cancers, especially if they do not protect their skin from the harmful effects of UV.
We are the only designated national service for xeroderma pigmentosum. We diagnose and treat adults and children from across the UK, working closely with our specialists in photodermatology, the dermatology surgery and laser unit, children's neurology, genetics, ophthalmology (eye), psychology and the neurogenetics department at University College Hospital.
Our patients see a wide range of health professionals at our clinic including dermatology specialists. Our specialist nurses visit patients at their home, school or workplace.
Join our online community
Follow the Xeroderma Pigmentosum UK community on HealthUnlocked, the social network for health.
Our research
Find out more about our xeroderma pigementosum research.
SKIN, a history
Read more about xeroderma pigmentosum in SKIN, a history using our page turning software or download chapter 3 (PDF 3.14Mb).