Sun-induced disorders

Photosensitivity diseases frequently occur as a result of sun exposure in individuals with inherited and acquired disorders. Several of these disorders may manifest acute cutaneous manifestations that bring the patient to the emergency room. The more common disorders that may be seen in this setting include sunburn, lupus erythematosus, porphyria, photosensitivity dermatitis, and polymorphous light eruption. The diagnosis can frequently be suspected on the basis of a careful history and physical examination. Specialized diagnostic procedures available to the dermatologist may assist in making the correct diagnosis. Effective treatment is available for many of these disorders.