Phototoxic Drug Induced Photosensitivity By: Sarah Croitoru

Description  Reactions to medications triggered by exposure of the skin to UV light.  It occurs when a drug or chemical agent combines with UVA radiation.  Creates sunburn, blisters, and eczema-like rashes.

Layers of skin  Phototoxic Drug Induced Photosensitivity effects the cutaneous tissue.

Signs or Symptoms photoreactive agents can be found in deodorants, antibacterial soaps, artificial sweeteners, fluorescent brightening agents for cellulose, nylon and wool fibers, petroleum products, and cadmium sulfide, a chemical injected into the skin during tattooing  Short-term: exaggerated sunburn-like skin conditions, eye burn, mild allergic reactions, hives, abnormal reddening of the skin, and eczema-like rashes with itching, swelling, blistering, oozing, and scaling of the skin.  Long-term: premature skin aging, stronger allergic reactions, cataracts, blood vessel damage, and skin cancer.

Cause  Drugs absorb energy from UVA light and release it into the skin which causes cell damage and possibly death.  Reactions occur within a few minutes to several hours of UV light exposure.  Although chemical and light exposure isn’t enough to stimulate the disease, when photo activation occurs, one or more cutaneous (skin) manifestations may occur.

Cure  Discontinue using the medication  Topical steroid creams help calm redness  Antihistamines are helpful in reducing itchiness  If severe, oral steroids can be taken for days only if instructed by your doctor.

Worst Case  The worst case of phototoxic reactions is death.

Facts  Foods such as lime, carrots, celery, and figs can contribute to photosensitivity.  Phototoxic reactions account for 95% of all photosensitivity cases.  People with fair complexions; red, blonde or light brown hair; blue or green eyes; who tend to burn, are more likely to get photosensitivity.

Sources   overview overview  ity/chemical_photosensitivity.htm ity/chemical_photosensitivity.htm