Professional paper
Phototoxic and Photoallergic Skin Reactions
Liborija Lugović
Mirna Šitum
Suzana Ožanić-Bulić
Ines Sjerobabski-Masnec
Abstract
Indirect action of sun together with different exogenous agents (systemic medications and topically applied compounds)
sometimes may result in phototoxicic and photoallergic reactions. Drug-induced photosensitivity reactions refer
to the development of cutaneous disease as a result of the combined effects of a drug and light (mostly spectrum within
the UVA and visible light range or UVB range). The aim of the review was to show the prominent features of phototoxic
and photoallergic reactions, which occur in sun-exposed areas, including face, neck, hands and forearms. Phototoxic reactions
are significantly more common than photoallergic reactions and mosty resemble to exaggerated sunburn. Photoallergic
reactions appear only in a minority of individuals and resemble allergic contact dermatitis on sun-exposed areas,
although sometimes may extend into covered areas. Generally, the physical examination and a positive patient’s
history of photosensitivity reactions on substances are of great importance for the diagnostics. The treatment of these reactions
includes identification and avoidance of offending agent and application of anti-inflammatory dressings, ointments
and corticosteroids.
Keywords
photosensitivity; phototoxic; photoallergic reactions
Hrčak ID:
27426
URI
Publication date:
16.1.2007.
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