In an open prospective study essential fatty acids (EFA) were given or
ally to patients with Darier's disease, Patients received 12 capsules
daily each containing 40 mg gamolenic acid, 315 mg linoleic acid, 20 m
g eicosapentaenoic acid, 11 mg docosahexaenoic acid and 10 mg vitamin
E. The extent and severity of the disease were assessed using a scorin
g system. Of 14 patients who completed 12 months of EFA supplementatio
n, 13 improved and 5 with mild involvement cleared after 6-9 months of
treatment. Six patients previously experiencing aggravation of the co
ndition 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.