[Phytophotodermatitis. Some photobiological aspects of psoralens]

The frequency of plant dermatitis, in general, depends on the type of plants, the climate, occupation and lifestyle of the local inhabitants. Many plants produce adverse effects on the skin like irritation, allergic reactions and phototoxicity. Generally, allergic contact dermatitis is emphasized but it is necessary to give more attention to phototoxicity produced by plants. The patients may be exposed not only to the phototoxic plant itself but also to its derivatives in perfumes, cosmetics and industry.