Photodermatitis vs. Actinic Prurigo
Similarities:
- Both conditions involve abnormal skin reactions to UV light, causing red, itchy, or inflamed skin.
- Sun exposure can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals.
- Sun avoidance and protective measures, like wearing sunscreen and covering up, are essential in both cases.
Differences:
- Photodermatitis is typically caused by an external substance (such as medication, plant extracts, or cosmetics) that makes the skin hypersensitive to UV light.
- Actinic Prurigo is a chronic condition that causes itchy bumps or sores on sun-exposed skin and is more common in people of Indigenous descent in the Americas.
- Photodermatitis is often an acute reaction, while actinic prurigo is a long-term, hereditary condition.