Photosensitivity Reactions

An adverse reaction to natural or artificial light or to light and certain chemicals (including some medications) characterizes photosensitivity reactions. The most common reaction is sunburn, which is dose­related. The other two types are phototoxic reactions, which are also dose-related, and photoallergic reactions, which are uncommon and not dose-related ­ even slight exposure can cause a severe reaction.

Causes

Sunburn results from unprotected exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays.

A phototoxic reaction results from exposure to sunlight teamed with certain medications. such as antihistamines and antimicrobials, or chemicals, such as dyes, coal tar, and furocoumarin compounds found in plants. Some foods, such as celery, parsnips, carrots, and limes, that touch the patient's skin while in the sun can cause a phototoxic reaction. Berlock dermatitis, a specific photosensitivity reaction, results from the use of oil of bergamot - a common component of perfumes, colognes, and pomades.

A photoallergic reaction is an immune response that can arise after even slight exposure to light.

Risk factors associated with photosensitivity include:

• outdoor occupation
• outdoor lifestyle
• youth or age
• certain environmental factors (high altitude or proximity to equator)
• decreased ozone layer density.

Symptoms

Photosensitivity reactions manifest as scaly, itchy rashes which can appear anywhere from one to fourteen days after exposure on exposed areas of the skin, as well as any other parts of the body.

Diagnostic tests

The Photopatch test for ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) rays may aid the diagnosis and identify the causative light wavelength. Skin punch biopsy helps to diagnose skin damage resulting from the sun.

Other studies must rule out connective tissue disease, such as lupus erythematosus and porphyrias.

Treatment

For many photosensitive patients, treatment focuses on prevention by using a sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting exposure to sunlight. For other patients, progressive exposure to sunlight can thicken the skin and produce a tan that interferes with photoallergens and prevents further eruptions.

PUVA (psoralen and UVA) may be used to treat polymorphous light eruption. Treatment for solar urticaria may also require PUVA. Although hyperpigmentation usually fades in several months, hydroquinone preparations can hasten the process.

Prevention

• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun
• Avoid sun exposure during the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• Wear a sunblock, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
• Wear a hat and protective clothing.

© Doctor-clinic.org. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer :- The materials in this web site are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice medical symptoms or feel ill, you should consult your doctor . We will not be liable for any complications or other medical accidents arising from or in connection with the use of or reliance upon any information in this web site.