Photosensitisation

Photosensitised workers often have adverse effects from exposure to industrial UVR.  The use of certain drugs, and topical application of certain products, may produce reactions on exposure to UVA.  These reactions involve both photoallergy (allergic reaction of the skin) and phototoxicity (irritation of the skin) after exposure to UVR either from the sun or industrial sources.

Photosensitising substances include:

  • Sulphonamides
  • Salicylanilides
  • Quinine
  • Coal tar derivatives
    • Acridine
    • Anthrocene
    • Phenanthrene
    • Dyes
      • Anthroquinone
      • Eosin
      • Methylene blue
      • Rose Bengal
  • Psoralens
  • Some fragrances
  • Cyclamate
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (analgesics, anti-arthritics)
  • Deodorant and bacteriostatic agents in soaps
  • Fluorescent brightening agent for cellulose, nylon or wool fibres
  • Phenothiozines (major tranquilisers, antiemetics)
  • Sulfonylureas (oral antidiabetics, medication for hypoglycaemia)
  • Sunscreen ingredients
    • 6-Acetoxy-2, 4-dimethyl-M-dioxone (preservative)
    • Benzophenones
    • Cinnamates
    • Oxybenzone
    • Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
    • PABA esters
  • Tetracyclines
  • Tricyclic antidepressants