[Phototoxic reactions to 8-methoxypsoralen as occupational dermatosis]

The case history of a 50-year-old assistant pharmacist, who had been working with 8-methoxypsoralene (8-MOP) without any protection, is discussed. Shortly after this work, he was exposed to sunlight. Within 72 h he developed a typical local reaction with painful erythema and vesiculation on the back of both hands, followed by hyperpigmentation a week later. Light testing on skin dusted with 8-MOP resulted in the same clinical picture. Histopathological examination of a lesion showed the characteristics of a phototoxic dermatitis. Guidelines for the prevention of complications in those who are professionally exposed to 8-MOP are emphasized.