What is phytophotodermatitis caused by?
Phytophotodermatitis is most commonly caused by ingestion of or topical exposure to psoralens (furocoumarins). Psoralens have been isolated from at least 4 different plant families: Umbelliferae, Rutaceae, Moraceae, and Leguminosae. Chart modified from Plants and the Skin.
What plants cause phytophotodermatitis?
The chemicals that cause phytophotodermatitis are found most commonly in wild parsnip, wild dill, wild parsley, buttercups and citrus fruits, especially limes.
What does Photodermatitis mean?
: any dermatitis caused or precipitated by exposure to light.
What causes skin photosensitivity?
Photosensitivity, sometimes referred to as a sun allergy, is an immune system reaction that is triggered by sunlight. Sunlight can trigger immune system reactions. People develop itchy eruptions or areas of redness and inflammation on patches of sun-exposed skin.
What is true photosensitivity?
Photosensitivity is an extreme sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and other light sources. Most people are at risk of developing sunburn during long exposure to sunlight. Exposure to UV rays can also lead to skin damage and skin cancer.
What is XP sunlight disease?
People who have an extreme sensitivity to sunlight are born with a rare disease known as xeroderma pigmentosum (XP). They must take extreme measures to protect their skin from ultraviolet (UV) light. Anything that emits UV light, including the sun and some lightbulbs, can damage their skin.
Can hormones cause sun sensitivity?
For years, researchers have suspected that external sources of estrogen, such as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), increase photosensitivity. The more photosensitive a person is, the lower the dose of ultraviolet radiation needed to redden the skin.
Can sun sensitivity be cured?
Mild cases of sun allergy may clear up without treatment. More-severe cases may be treated with steroid creams or pills. People who have a severe sun allergy may need to take preventive measures and wear sun-protective clothing.
What kind of plants are associated with phytophotodermatitis?
Other plant species in the family Rutaceae that are associated with phytophotodermatitis include burning bush ( Dictamnus albus ), common rue ( Ruta graveolens ), and other plants in the genus Ruta . The mulberry family Moraceae is often associated with phytophotodermatitis.
What to do about photodermatitis caused by plants?
Photodermatitis caused by plants is called phytophotodermatitis . Prevention includes avoiding exposure to chemicals that can trigger the reaction, such as by wearing gloves, or avoiding sunlight or wearing sunscreen preferably with at least factor 30 and with a high UVA protection level on the affected area.
Why do heat and moisture exacerbate phytophotodermatitis?
Heat and moisture tend to exacerbate the reaction. A reaction may be elicited in any person who has been exposed to adequate amounts of both a Photosensitizer agent and ultraviolet light.
How long does it take for phytophotodermatitis reaction to occur?
A reaction typically begins within 24 hours of exposure and peaks at 48–72 hours after exposure. Initially, the skin turns red and starts to itch and burn. Large blisters (or bullae) form within 48 hours.
