Chemical-Induced Phototoxic Reaction

Chemical-Induced Phototoxic Reaction

Article
Skin Care
Diseases & Conditions
Contributed byLester Fahrner, MD+1 moreJun 07, 2022

The topic Chemical-Induced Phototoxic Reaction you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Phototoxic Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photosensitivity.

Quick Summary:

  • Photosensitivity can be described as an allergic reaction of the body (or skin) on exposure to the sun. This immune reaction may also occur on the usage or consumption of certain drugs, medications, or chemicals, with subsequent exposure to sunlight (or ultraviolet light). This condition is termed as drug (or chemical) induced photosensitivity
  • Drug (or chemical) induced photosensitivity can occur in the following manner:
    • Phototoxic Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photosensitivity, also known as Drug (or Chemical) Induced Phototoxic Reaction
    • Photoallergic Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photosensitivity, also known as Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photoallergic Reaction

Phototoxic Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photosensitivity occurs when there is a reaction between drugs (or chemicals) and ultraviolet (UV) light.

  • Usually the individual is taking certain medications/drugs or using certain chemicals; but, when there is an exposure to UV light, the individual develops an adverse skin reaction
  • The drugs/chemicals may be used for treatment or cosmetic purposes, or there may be an occupational exposure while working in agricultural fields or in an industrial plant. The chemical may also be commonly used in the kitchen or toilets, such as a cleaning fluid
  • The signs and symptoms of Phototoxic Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photosensitivity can be local (confined to an area of skin) or systemic (widespread in the body). Thus, not only the skin, but other body parts and organs can also be affected. And, depending on the condition type it is classified as:
    • Topical Phototoxic Dermatitis: It is caused by cosmetics, therapeutic drugs, or industrial chemicals and the signs and symptoms are limited to the area of application/exposure
    • Systemic Phototoxic Dermatitis: It is caused by a photosensitizing drug/chemical and the condition affects several parts of the body or the entire body
  • The primary treatment for Phototoxic Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photosensitivity is discontinuation or stoppage of the offending medication/drug/chemical. The prognosis of the condition is typically excellent with suitable treatment

Please find comprehensive information on Phototoxic Drug (or Chemical) Induced Photosensitivity regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

Was this article helpful

On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Lester Fahrner, MD picture
Reviewed by

Lester Fahrner, MD

Chief Medical Officer, DoveMed Team

0 Comments

Please log in to post a comment.

Related Articles

Test Your Knowledge

Asked by users

Related Centers

Loading

Related Specialties

Loading card

Related Physicians

Related Procedures

Related Resources

Join DoveHubs

and connect with fellow professionals

Related Directories

Who we are

At DoveMed, our utmost priority is your well-being. We are an online medical resource dedicated to providing you with accurate and up-to-date information on a wide range of medical topics. But we're more than just an information hub - we genuinely care about your health journey. That's why we offer a variety of products tailored for both healthcare consumers and professionals, because we believe in empowering everyone involved in the care process.
Our mission is to create a user-friendly healthcare technology portal that helps you make better decisions about your overall health and well-being. We understand that navigating the complexities of healthcare can be overwhelming, so we strive to be a reliable and compassionate companion on your path to wellness.
As an impartial and trusted online resource, we connect healthcare seekers, physicians, and hospitals in a marketplace that promotes a higher quality, easy-to-use healthcare experience. You can trust that our content is unbiased and impartial, as it is trusted by physicians, researchers, and university professors around the globe. Importantly, we are not influenced or owned by any pharmaceutical, medical, or media companies. At DoveMed, we are a group of passionate individuals who deeply care about improving health and wellness for people everywhere. Your well-being is at the heart of everything we do.

© 2023 DoveMed. All rights reserved. It is not the intention of DoveMed to provide specific medical advice. DoveMed urges its users to consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and answers to their personal medical questions. Always call 911 (or your local emergency number) if you have a medical emergency!