Photosensitivity and photodermatoses in childhood

Abstract:

Photodermatoses are a group of skin disorders caused by a pathologic photosensitivity. Photosensitivity and photodermatoses occur less often in children than in adults. Idiopathic photodermatoses occurring in childhood include polymorphous light eruption, idiopathic solar urticaria, actinic prurigo, hydroa vacciniforme and  juvenile spring eruption. Genophotodermatoses are less frequent and characterised by early development of skin cancers in addition to the symptoms of the underlying disease. Photosensitivity and photodermatoses in childhood are often caused by metabolic diseases, such as phenylketonuria and various forms of porphyria. Some systemic disorders, such as childhood systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile dermatomyositis and neonatal lupus erythematosus, are characterised by pronounced photosensitivity. Finally, some exogenous factors, e.g., medications and herbs, may also cause photosensitivity. It is important to use all diagnostic procedures available to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of photodermatoses. Safe and effective sun protection of children with pathologic photosensitivity requires special attention

Key words:
child; metabolic diseases; photosensitivity disorders; skin diseases