Acute skin reaction that occurs when certain chemical compounds present in plants or fruits come into contact with the skin and, at the same time, are activated by exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) light. It occurs most frequently in people working in agriculture or gardening.
It is mainly caused by two factors: the presence of phytochemical compounds in certain plants, such as lemon, lime, orange, celery and some flowers, and subsequent exposure to sunlight or UV light.
Symptoms appear within 24 hours after exposure. The most common manifestations include redness, swelling, burning and blistering of the hands, arms, face and neck that have been exposed to the herbal substances and sunlight.
Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment of symptoms and the patient's history of exposure to herbal substances and sunlight.
Treatment includes washing the affected skin with mild soap and water, applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and burning, and avoiding further exposure to the sun until the skin has fully recovered.
In more severe cases, topical corticosteroids or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce the skin reaction.
- McGovern TW. Dermatoses due to plants. In: Dermatology, 3rd ed, Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV, et al (Eds), Elsevier Saunders, 2012. Vol 1, p.273.
- Derraik JG, Rademaker M. Phytophotodermatitis causada por el contacto con una higuera (Ficus carica). NZ Med J 2007; 120:U2720.
- Boffa MJ, Gilmour E, Ead RD. Sopa de apio que causa fototoxicidad severa durante la terapia PUVA. Br J Dermatol 1996; 135:334.
- Puig L, de Moragas JM. Mejora de los efectos fototóxicos de PUVA después de la ingestión de apio: el caldo frío también puede quemar. Arco Dermatol 1994; 130:809.
