Photodermatitis

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Photodermatitis
Classification and external resources
An image of a patch of sun poisoning on the left forearm.
ICD-10	L57.8
ICD-9	692.79
DiseasesDB	24609
MeSH	[1]

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.

Causes

Many medications and conditions can cause sun sensitivity, including:

• psoralens, coal tars, photo-active dyes (eosin, acridine orange)
• musk ambrette, methylcoumarin, lemon oil (may be present in fragrances)
• PABA (found in sunscreens)
• salicylanilide (found in industrial cleaners)
• St John's Wort, used to treat clinical depression
• Hexachlorophene (found in some ℞ antibacterial soaps)
• Contact with sap from Giant Hogweed. Common Rue (Ruta graveolins) is another phototoxic plant commonly found in gardens.
• Tetracycline antibiotics
• NSAIDs.
• Fluoroquinolone antibiotic: Sparfloxacin in 2% of cases.
• Amiodarone, used to treat atrial fibrillation
• Pellagra

Photodermatitis can also be caused by plants. This is called phytophotodermatitis.

• Lime Oil

Symptoms

May result in swelling, 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 of large to small areas 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.

Prevention

Prevention includes avoiding exposure to the sun:

• Stay inside during the brightest hours of the day, from noon to 3 p.m.
• Cover up: wear long sleeves, slacks, and a wide-brimmed hat whenever harsh exposure is probable. Remember that cloud cover does not provide protection from UV rays.
• Avoid chemicals that may trigger a reaction (do not, however, stop taking medication without consulting a doctor).
• Wear sunscreen^[1] at least factor 30 with a high UVA protection level.

Foods and treatment

The following foods or treatment may also help:

• Beta Carotene - found in carrots, not proven to be effective
• Omega-3 fatty acids - found in fish and flax seed
• Protein - will especially help individuals where malnutrition may be a contributing factor.
• Vitamin B3, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E
• Green tea - antioxidants
• Calendula
• Aloe - external use
• If pellagra is the cause, niacin is the specific treatment

References

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