Phytophotodermatitis is caused by exposure to furocoumarins. This is a type of chemical found on plant surfaces. The chemical can become activated by UVA rays through the process of...

Understanding the Context

What is phytophotodermatitis? Phytophotodermatitis, a form of plant dermatitis, is a skin reaction that occurs after natural photosensitising chemicals (furanocoumarins) present within plant sap and fruits, become smeared onto the skin, and there is subsequent exposure to sunlight. Phytophotodermatitis is a phototoxic inflammatory reaction of the skin resulting from contact with a light-sensitizing botanical agent (such as lime juice) followed by exposure to ultraviolet A (UV-A) light (from the sun, for instance). Phytophotodermatitis is an inflammatory reaction to chemicals in certain plants or fruits triggered by sunlight.

Key Insights

Learn more about this rash and how to treat it at WebMD. Phytophotodermatitis is a clinical diagnosis and should be suspected when patients present with an irregularly shaped rash and exposure to sunlight and a psoralen-containing substance. Plant and sun dermatitis (phytophotodermatitis) is an inflammatory reaction of the skin. It occurs after contact with the leaves and stems of certain plants, followed by sun exposure. Phytophotodermatitis can happen when the skin reacts to a combination of certain plants and sunlight.

Final Thoughts

The symptoms can be mild or severe and usually fade on their own. Phytophotodermatitis is a skin reaction that happens when plant chemicals and sunlight mix, causing a rash, blisters or discoloration.