How Do You Spell PHOTOALLERGIC DERMATITIS?

1. Photoallergic dermatitis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal skin reaction to the exposure of sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) radiation in combination with certain chemicals or substances applied to the skin. It is a type of allergic contact dermatitis that occurs due to the interaction between the skin and both the allergen and UV light.

   This condition typically presents as a rash or inflammation on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, neck, hands, and arms. Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, blistering, and sometimes even pain. These reactions occur because the chemicals or substances applied to the skin undergo a photochemical reaction when exposed to UV light, triggering an immune response in the body.

   Common triggers for photoallergic dermatitis include various topical medications, cosmetics, fragrances, preservatives, and some plants. Diagnosis of this condition is usually made through a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and patch testing.

   Treatment for photoallergic dermatitis often involves avoiding exposure to both the triggering chemicals or substances and sunlight or UV radiation. Topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, or immune-modulating medications may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation. Additionally, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), and seeking shade during peak hours of sunlight can help prevent further reactions and protect the skin from harmful UV radiation.

Common Misspellings for PHOTOALLERGIC DERMATITIS

The term "photoallergic dermatitis" is derived from combining several Greek and Latin roots.

1. "Photo-" is a prefix derived from the Greek word "phos" meaning "light". In medical terminology, "photo-" is often used to refer to something related to light or photosensitivity.

2. "Allergic" comes from the Late Latin word "allergicus", derived from the Greek word "allergēs", meaning "other action" or "reaction". It denotes an abnormal response of the immune system to a normally harmless substance.

3. "Dermatitis" is derived from the Greek words "derma", which means "skin", and "-itis", which refers to inflammation. Therefore, "dermatitis" is a general term for inflammation of the skin.