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Phytophototoxin Poisoning

Practice Essentials

Phytophotodermatitis (PPD) is a phototoxic inflammatory dermal reaction mimicking a burn injury. It is induced by exposure to certain light-sensitizing plant products, most often furocoumarins, followed by exposure to long-wave ultraviolet light (UV-A 320-380 nm).
Both components (plant and light) are required; neither agent alone can cause phytophotodermatitis.

The phototoxic inflammatory eruption usually appears 24 hours after exposure and peaks within 48-72 hours. Initial burning erythema is followed by blistering, epidermal necrosis (shown in the photo below), and desquamation. The acute process may be followed by postinflammatory irregular hyperpigmentation that can last weeks to months.

Close-up view of vesicular linear streaks with mor

Close-up view of vesicular linear streaks with morphology suggestive of scattered foci of epidermal necrosis.

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