Photosensitivity skin disorders in childhood.

ABSTRACT

Photosensitivity in childhood is caused by a diverse group of diseases. A specific sensitivity of a child's skin to ultraviolet light is often the first manifestation or a clinical symptom of photodermatosis. It might indicate a serious underlying systemic disease such as lupus erythematosus or dermatomyositis, or a rare group of genetic skin disorders like Xeroderma pigmentosum, Cockayne syndrome, Trichothyodystrophy, Bloom syndrome, Rothmund-Thomson and Kindler syndrome as well as metabolic disorders and cutaneous porphyria. Photosensitivity secondary to topical or systemic agents may also cause photosensitivity in children. Early recognition and prompt diagnosis may prevent complications associated with unprotected exposure to sunlight and avoid actinic injuries that can lead to malignant skin changes.