General Q and A Forum - Allergy to the sun / sun's rays / sunlight

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Allergies

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Q: Allergy to the sun / sun's rays / sunlight

asked by: DoctorQuestion on May 31st, 2007

Hello, I'm needing help on something unrelated to me. I've trawled the internet to no avail. I need info on a condition where the person is allergic to the suns rays. I've seen it on tv, where they are shrouded in blackout clothes and have special creams. I can't remember what its called, PG (whatever that is!) leads to Hypervinosis D. Its an intollerance to Vitamin D which will lead to calcium deposits in the heart and lungs. I think it is quite a rare condition. I just need pointed in the right direction as to websites, charities, research and books. I desperately need to find out about this and fast. I hope someone can help me out. I would be very grateful. Thank you in advance for any help and info.
P.S I couldn't find a suitable category for the headder of this question.

Replies(1)

DoctorAnswer Doctor Answer

replied on June 6th, 2007

General Q&A Answer A2859

An allergy to the sun, or "photodermatitis", is a condition that develops in areas of the body exposed to ultra violet rays of the sun. Photodermatitis may take the form of either a phototoxic allergy( direct effect of the UV rays,i.e sunburning), photoallergic allergy (occurs when the individual exposed to sun also uses certain chemicals that make the skin allergic to sunlight), or polymorphus sun erruptions (a skin condition in which exposure to sunlight leads to red rush). Photodermatitis can be diagnosed by its symptoms and the examination of the skin. You can search in books on dermatovenerology for a visual idea of the condition, or consult a specialist in dermatovenerology in order to learn more about allergies to the sun.

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