Phototoxic cutaneous reaction after sodium diclofenac use
Abstract
Multifaceted effects and easy availability of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are associated with a higher likelihood of skin adverse side effects including photoallergic and phototoxic reactions. Their frequency increases significantly in the spring-summer period due to increased exposure to UV radiation. Here, we present a 52-year-old patient who applied 1% sodium diclofenac due to pain in the upper limb, and then underwent intensive exposure to solar radiation. On the second day, she developed swelling, erythema, increased soreness and bullous lesions filled with serous content. On the second day, systemic symptoms occurred: chills, fever, headache. Based on
the whole disease picture, a phototoxic reaction induced by NSAIDs was diagnosed. In the treatment, glucocorticoids were used generally and topically, obtaining a significant improvement in the clinical condition.
Keywords: phototoxicityphotoallergytopical NSAIDsUV radiationadverse effect
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