Photoallergic eczema

Last Updated: 2023-07-07

Author(s): Anzengruber F., Navarini A.

ICD11: EK01

Photoallergic, photoallergy

In people with specific sensitisation to a certain allergen, dermatitis develops after contact sensitisation in the case of re-exposure.

As with other contact allergies, sensitisation is necessary first. With renewed exposure and UV-A radiation (less or rarely UV-B), photoallergic dermatitis develops.

Sharp, erythematous papules and papulovesicles. In some cases, blisters may also appear if the reaction is severe. A chronic photoallergic contact eczema may develop if the reaction persists.

  • Anamnesis
  • Clinic
  • Photopatch test
  • Photoprovocation

UV-exposed areas

Parahyperkeratosis, acanthosis, spongiosis, perivascular infiltrate.

UV protection

Contact allergy lasts a lifetime. However, after eliminating the photoallergen, exacerbation can be prevented.

Mometasone cream 1x daily

  1. Onoue S, Seto Y, Sato H, Nishida H, Hirota M, Ashikaga T, Api AM, Basketter D, Tokura Y. Chemical photoallergy: photobiochemical mechanisms, classification, and risk assessments. J Dermatol Sci. 2017 Jan;85(1):4-11.
  2. Mowad CM, Anderson B, Scheinman P, Pootongkam S, Nedorost S, Brod B. Allergic contact dermatitis: Patient management and education. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016 Jun;74(6):1043-54.

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