MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Phytophotodermatitis on the hand

Medical Encyclopedia

Phytophotodermatitis on the hand

This person is sensitive to chemicals used in perfumes, and now develops a rash when the area is exposed to light (Phytophotodermatitis). These perfumes include Oil of Bergamot, an oil also found in some citrus fruits and wild plants. It results in streaky redness (erythema) and pigmentary changes.

Update Date: 2/5/2008

Updated by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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