Photocontact dermatitis.
Photocontact dermatitis is not a common condition, but neither is it rare. Both photo-irritant contact dermatitis (PICD) and photoallergic contact dermatitis (PACD) are seen by most dermatologists in general practice. PICD is diagnosed on clinical grounds and is usually caused by furocoumarins in plants like limes and celery. PACD is caused primarily by sunscreens but can also be the result of fragrances and antibacterial agents. PACD can only be diagnosed by photo-patch testing that most dermatologists, even those who patch test and give phototherapy in their office, do not perform. The procedure as outlined in this manuscript is relatively simple and can easily be accomplished in the dermatologist's office.
Department of Dermatology, St Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY 10025, USA. vdeleo@slrhc.org
Vincent A
VA
Deleo
D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D017454:Dermatitis, Photoallergic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D017484:Dermatitis, Phototoxic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D006229:Hand Dermatoses; D006801:Humans; D007868:Leg Dermatoses; D008297:Male; D010328:Patch Tests; D011322:Primary Prevention / Q000379:methods; D011379:Prognosis; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000485:Allergens; D013473:Sunscreening Agents