Photodermatitis

Photodermatitis: causes, symptoms and treatment

Photodermatitis is a disease that occurs as a result of increased skin sensitivity to sunlight. It can manifest as redness, itching, blistering and other symptoms.

Photodermatitis is divided into two main categories: exogenous and endogenous. Exogenous photodermatitis is caused by external factors, such as the presence of certain substances on the skin in combination with ultraviolet radiation. Endogenous photodermatitis is caused by internal causes, such as disturbances in the body's immune system or metabolic disorders.

One of the striking examples of exogenous photodermatitis is meadow dermatitis. During the flowering period, many plants secrete a special substance onto human skin - furocoumarin. When the skin is exposed to UV light at the same time, some people may experience a number of symptoms, such as redness of the skin, blistering, severe itching and prolonged pigmentation of the affected areas of the skin.

In addition to meadow dermatitis, exogenous photodermatitis can be caused by other phototoxic substances, such as bergamot oil, some disinfectants, diuretics and antidiabetic drugs, and sulfonamides.

Treatment of exogenous photodermatitis usually involves the use of topical medications, such as betamethasone, applied directly to the affected areas of the skin. In some cases, a short course of oral glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone or prednisolone may be indicated.

Endogenous photodermatitis, such as porphyria, xeroderma pigmentosum, Hydroa vacciniformia, Akne aestivalis and polymorphic photodermatosis, require closer attention from specialists. To properly treat these conditions, it is necessary to identify the true cause that causes such a pathological reaction of the body to sunlight. This may require numerous tests and consultations with dermatologists, immunologists and allergists.

Overall, photodermatitis can be an unpleasant and unpleasant condition, but has a good prognosis, especially if its causes are quickly identified and treated. It is also important to remember to take precautions, such as using sunscreen, wearing clothing that protects from sunlight, and limiting time in the sun, especially during periods of peak solar activity. If you suspect photodermatitis, consult a specialist to get the correct diagnosis and treatment.



Photodermatitis is a group of skin diseases that are caused by exposure to sunlight. Photodermatoses differ from ordinary dermatitis, which is accompanied by redness and irritation of the skin from various substances, as well as allergenic properties, and requires the patient to be advised to avoid contact before the inflammation subsides.

Photodermatitis can develop in people between the ages of 20 and 60, including infants and children. Complications of photodermatosis include: * Increased sensitivity to ultraviolet light, called light sensitivity; * Allergies (occurs rarely); * Chronic inflammatory processes of the skin in areas of the body exposed to the sun; * Development of malignant skin tumors (melanoma).