Photosensitivity Disorders In Childhood

Abstract

A diverse group of disorders cause photosensitivity in childhood. These disorders are often misdiagnosed, partially because they are so unusual and partially because the manifestations are so subtle. Cutaneous disorders caused or exacerbated by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in childhood include: - Idiopathic disorders: such as polymorphous light eruption, actinic prurigo, hydroa vacciniforme and solar urticaria. - Exogenous photosensitivity disorders: such as photoirritant contact dermatitis and photoallergic contact dermatitis. - Systemic diseases: such as systemic lupus erythematosus, neonatal lupus erythematosus and dermatomyositis. - Genetic and metabolic disorders: such as xeroderma pigmentosum and porphyrias.

Early recognition and management of these diseases will prevent long­ term complications associated with inadequate photoprotection, and will identify patients who may be at risk for serious systemic complications. Diseases that cause photosensitivity in adults may occur less frequently in children. It may be difficult to determine whether a child is photosensitive or not The abnormal cutaneous responses to ultraviolet radiation and visible light may vary from very subtle skin changes, such as erythema, to very dramatic changes with pain and bulla formation. . Reduction of light exposure is paramount in the management of all photosensitivity disorders. Photoprotection factors such as, high-SPF topical sunscreens, oral anti-malarials and beta-carotene are required together with major life style adjustments in some cases.