II. Risk factors: Photosensitivity
-
Drug-induced Photosensitivity
- See Photosensitizers
- Primary Photodermatitis
- Polymorphic light eruption
- Solar Urticaria
- Hydroa vacciniforme (EBV infection)
- Photo-aggravated Conditions
III. Signs
- Sufficient exposure to Ultraviolet Light
- Immediate erythema
- Occurs within minutes of exposure
- Fades within 30 minutes
- Delayed erythema
- Reappears 3 to 6 hours after exposure
- Peaks at 12 to 24 hours
- Persists for days
- Associated findings
- Edema
- Vesicles
- Desquamation often within 1 week
IV. Management
- See Burn Management
- See Drug-induced Photosensitivity
- Treat as minor Burn Injury
- Cool wet compresses applied for 10-30 minutes
- Avoid ice due to Vasoconstriction and increased tissue injury
- Oral Analgesics
- Skin protectants
- Skin Lubricants (e.g. Eucerin)
- Aloe Vera gel may be used if soothing
- However, aloe has no evidence-based benefit over other topicals
- Consider Topical Anesthetic for localized burn (Lidocaine preparations such as Lidocaine 4% patch)
- Do not apply to non-intact skin
- Avoid Benzocaine preparations (sensitizer)
- Avoid ineffective and potentially harmful agents
- Avoid topical or Systemic Corticosteroids
- Avoid Topical Antibiotics (e.g. neomycin) due to Contact Dermatitis risk
- Avoid home remedies
- Avoid applying butter
- Occlusive and may trap heat, increasing Burn Injury
- Avoid apple cider vinegar, buttermilk, lavender oil
- No evidence for benefit
- Avoid applying butter
V. Prevention
- See Sunscreen
- See Sun Exposure
VI. Complications
- Two Sunburns before age 18 predisposes to Melanoma
VII. References
- (2018) Presc Lett 25(8)
- Goroll (2000) Primary Care Medicine, p. 1065-6
- Habif (1996) Clinical Dermatology, Mosby, p.602-3
- Oakley (2022) Photosensitivity, StatPearls, Treasure Island, FL