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Photodermatitis due to nifedipine: report of 2 cases
P Zenarola1, S Gatti, M Lomuto
1Department of Dermatology, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, S. Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Rome, Italy.
Dermatologica
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Nifedipine, a medication for high blood pressure, can cause severe sun sensitivity (photosensitivity dermatitis). Re-exposure to nifedipine confirmed it as the cause in two patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Arterial hypertension is a common cardiovascular condition requiring pharmacologic management.
- Nifedipine is a widely prescribed calcium channel blocker for treating hypertension.
Observation:
- Two patients developed severe photosensitivity dermatitis.
- The dermatitis occurred after initiating nifedipine therapy for arterial hypertension.
Findings:
- Nifedipine was identified as the causative agent in both cases.
- Casual rechallenge with nifedipine confirmed the drug-induced nature of the photosensitivity dermatitis.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for nifedipine-induced photosensitivity.
- Patients on nifedipine should be counseled on sun protection measures.
- Differential diagnosis of photosensitivity should include nifedipine use.