Phytophotodermatitis in 19 children admitted to hospital and their differential diagnoses: Child abuse and herpes simplex virus infection.
BACKGROUND
Phytophotodermatitis is a non-immunologic cutaneous reaction that can be provoked after contact with plants containing psoralens followed by sun exposure.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study is to describe the clinical features of phytophotodermatitis and its differential diagnoses, especially child abuse and herpes virus infection.


METHODS
Nineteen children seen in two county hospitals are described.


RESULTS
The 19 children had various cutaneous manifestations, which were mistaken in one patient for child abuse and in one child for herpes simplex virus infection.


CONCLUSIONS
The doctors' perception is based on the doctors' education.


CONCLUSIONS
Children are susceptible to contact with psoralen-containing plants followed by sun exposure. Phytophotodermatitis is a difficult diagnosis, which can sometimes lead to the inappropriate investigation of child abuse or herpes simplex virus infection.
Carlsen
Karen
K
Department of Dermatology at Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. Karen.Carlsen@fasanvaenget.dk
Weismann
Kaare
K
D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D017484:Dermatitis, Phototoxic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D011564:Furocoumarins / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006561:Herpes Simplex / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013472:Sunlight / Q000009:adverse effects*
D011564:Furocoumarins