Phototoxicity

Phototoxicity is a type of photosensitivity. There are over three dozen diseases, two dozen drugs, and several perfume and cosmetic components that can cause photosensitivity. There are also several different types of reaction to sunlight--phototoxicity, photoallergy, and polymorphous light eruption.

Phototoxicity is a severely exaggerated reaction to sunlight caused by a new chemical in the skin. The primary symptom is sunburn, which is rapid and can be severe enough to blister to a second degree burn. The chemicals associated with phototoxicity are usually drugs. The list includes several common antibiotics quinolones, sulfonamides, and tetracyclines; diuretics (water pills); major tranquilizers; oral diabetes medication; and cancer medicines. There are also some dermatologic drugs, both topical and oral, that can sensitize skin.

Phototoxicity Test Equipment

Research on Photoallergy involves the use of a controlled UV light source and an accurate dose control system. Both our Single Port and Multiport™ solar simulators are actively used for photoallergy work because of their class "A" spectral output, 2% stability output, high uniformity, and sophisticated dose control system. Both these simulators have the capability to switch their output from UVA only to UVA+UVB making them ideal for photoallergy testing. Additionally the Multiport™ has the ability to deliver different doses from each of it's 6 outputs.

Papers and Protocols on Photoxicity Testing

> Human Phototoxicity and Photoallergenicity Test by Dr. Stanfield at Suncare Research