Phytophotodermatitis

Phytophotodermatitis is a condition in which large blisters appear on the skin after contact with certain plants, such as wild parsnips or parsley. These blisters form when the skin is exposed to sunlight and can cause severe irritation and discomfort to the affected person.

Phytophotodermatitis is caused by phototoxic compounds found in certain plants. When these compounds come into contact with the skin, they can cause a reaction similar to a burn. In this case, sunlight increases the reaction, which leads to the formation of blisters on the skin.

Symptoms of phytophotodermatitis can appear from several hours to several days after contact with the plant. Typically, red spots appear on the skin, which turn into blisters after a few hours or days. The skin may also become very sensitive to sunlight.

Treatment for phytophotodermatitis usually involves the use of topical anti-inflammatory agents and antihistamines to relieve itching and irritation. In some cases, steroids or other medications may be needed.

The best way to prevent phytophotodermatitis is to avoid contact with plants that may cause this reaction. If you work with such plants, wear protective clothing and gloves, and avoid direct sunlight. If you do get burned by the plant, immediately wash your skin with plenty of water and apply a topical anti-inflammatory.

In conclusion, phytophotodermatitis is an unpleasant condition that can lead to discomfort and large blisters on the skin. To avoid this, you should avoid contact with plants that may cause a reaction and take precautions when handling them. If you do receive a burn, you should immediately seek medical help.



Phytophotodermatitis: harmful effects of contact with plants

Phytophotodermatitis, also known as phytoallergy or phytoallergic dermatitis, is a skin condition that occurs as a result of contact with certain plants and simultaneous exposure to sunlight. This is a common condition that often occurs in people with hypersensitivity to certain plants, such as wild parsnips or parsley.

One of the most common triggers for phytophotodermatitis is furocoumarins, which are found in some plants. When these plants are damaged or shrunk, furocoumarins are released and end up on human skin. Then, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, the chemical compounds contained in furocoumarins react with the DNA of the skin, causing inflammation and the development of characteristic symptoms.

One of the most noticeable symptoms of phytophotodermatitis are large blisters that form on the skin after contact with plants and subsequent exposure to sunlight. The blisters may appear blistered, and the skin around them may be red and inflamed. They can cause itching, burning and discomfort. Blisters usually appear within a few hours of contact with the plants and may last for several days or weeks.

People suffering from phytophotodermatitis may be especially at risk if they work in agriculture, gardening, or other activities that involve contact with plants. They may also be more susceptible to this condition in the spring and summer, when solar activity is highest.

To prevent phytophotodermatitis, several precautions should be taken. When working with plants containing furocoumarins, it is recommended to wear protective gloves and long sleeves to prevent contact with plant sap. Additionally, direct sun exposure should be avoided for several hours after contact with plants to reduce the risk of developing symptoms.

Treatment for phytophotodermatitis usually uses topical anti-inflammatory agents, such as creams or ointments, to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. In severe or recurrent cases, systemic treatment or a course of anti-inflammatory drugs may be required.

It is important to note that phytophotodermatitis is not an infectious disease and is not transmitted from person to person. However, it can cause significant discomfort and limit the daily activities of the affected person.

If you have a sensitivity to plants or notice the development of large blisters after contact with plants and exposure to sunlight, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or dermatologist for advice and diagnosis. A doctor can perform a physical examination, evaluate symptoms, and prescribe appropriate treatment.

In conclusion, phytophotodermatitis is a skin condition that occurs as a result of contact with certain plants and simultaneous exposure to sunlight. Large blisters that appear on the skin after contact may cause discomfort and require treatment. Taking precautions and seeking medical help can help prevent and manage this condition, keeping your skin healthy and comfortable.



In the conditions of the modern ecosystem, the human body is faced with a variety of harmful factors that can cause pathological changes at various levels of its life activity. One of these factors is phytophotodermatosis.

This clinical work describes the phenomenon of a sharp exacerbation of the existing clinical picture and extremely unpleasant symptoms in patients after sun exposure while consuming parsley and wild parsnips. Upon contact with these plants, one of the patients developed the following clinical picture: large blisters appeared on the skin of the forehead, nose, upper lip, cheek, behind the ears, neck and palm of one hand. Then this picture began to spread to other parts of the patient’s body. The blisters began to swell on their own, without previous redness of the skin, but sometimes the blisters were covered with a dry, thin layer of white lime. After 2-3 days, they first fell off in the form of a thin greasy coating, then turned into barely noticeable white dots. The diameter of the bubbles reached several centimeters. However, the discomfort was due