Photodermatitis

Photodermatitis, sometimes referred to as sun poisoning or photoallergy, is a form of allergic contact dermatitis in which the allergen must be activated by light to sensitize the allergic response, and to cause a rash or other systemic effects on subsequent exposure. The second and subsequent exposures produce photoallergic skin conditions which are often eczematous. It is distinct from sunburn.

Sun poisoning
A case of photodermatitis as a result of lemons
SpecialtyDermatology, immunology Edit this on Wikidata

Signs and symptoms

Photodermatitis may result in swelling, difficulty breathing, a burning sensation, a red itchy rash sometimes resembling small blisters, and peeling of the skin. Nausea may also occur. There may also be blotches where the itching may persist for long periods of time. In these areas an unsightly orange to brown tint may form, usually near or on the face.

Causes

Many medications and conditions can cause sun sensitivity, including:

Photodermatitis can also be caused by plants such as Ammi majus, parsnip, giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum), common rue (Ruta graveolens), and Dictamnus, a genus of flowering plants in the family Rutaceae with a single species Dictamnus albus, commonly called the burning bush. Photodermatitis caused by plants is called phytophotodermatitis.

Prevention

Prevention includes avoiding exposure to chemicals that can trigger the reaction, such as by wearing gloves, or avoiding sunlight or wearing sunscreen[3][4] preferably with at least factor 30 and with a high UVA protection level on the affected area. And by addressing any risk factors, such as those listed above.

See also

References
  1. Sulfa Allergy Symptoms and Risks
  2. Rodriguez E, Valbuena MC, Rey M, Porras de Quintana L. 2006. Causal agents of photoallergic contact dermatitis diagnosed in the national institute of dermatology of Colombia. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed 22(4): 189-192.
  3. Archived AAD - The Sun and Your Skin, "Allergic Reactions" section
  4. "AAD - Sunscreens". Archived from the original on 2014-07-21. Retrieved 2011-04-26.
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