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Phytophotodermatitis in 19 children admitted to hospital and their differential diagnoses: Child abuse and herpes simplex virus infection.

Carlsen K, Weismann K

Department of Dermatology at Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. Karen.Carlsen@fasanvaenget.dk

BACKGROUND: Phytophotodermatitis is a non-immunologic cutaneous reaction that can be provoked after contact with plants containing psoralens followed by sun exposure. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to describe the clinical features of phytophotodermatitis and its differential diagnoses, especially child abuse and herpes virus infection. METHODS: Nineteen children seen in two county hospitals are described. RESULTS: The 19 children had various cutaneous manifestations, which were mistaken in one patient for child abuse and in one child for herpes simplex virus infection. LIMITATIONS: The doctors' perception is based on the doctors' education. CONCLUSION: Children are susceptible to contact with psoralen-containing plants followed by sun exposure. Phytophotodermatitis is a difficult diagnosis, which can sometimes lead to the inappropriate investigation of child abuse or herpes simplex virus infection.

Published 16 October 2007 in J Am Acad Dermatol, 57(5): S88-91.
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