Cutaneous photosensitivity: clinical diagnosis and management

Photosensitivity disorders represent a diverse group of conditions in which exposure to sunlight triggers or exacerbates cutaneous disease. Their clinical presentation can vary widely, ranging from common conditions such as polymorphic light eruption to rare and potentially life-altering disorders including chronic actinic dermatitis, solar urticaria, porphyrias, and xeroderma pigmentosum. Because symptoms often overlap with more common dermatological conditions, diagnosis may be delayed, leading to significant impacts on quality of life and unnecessary morbidity. This course provides a practical, clinically focused overview of photosensitivity disorders and their management. Through real-world clinical scenarios, participants will learn how to recognize key patterns of presentation, differentiate common and rare photodermatoses, identify patients requiring specialist referral, and apply evidence-based photoprotection strategies. Particular attention is given to complex presentations such as the eczematous face, rapid-onset photosensitivity reactions, and exaggerated sunburn responses. The course also reviews the principles of ultraviolet radiation, sunscreen selection, and photoprotection counseling to support optimal patient care.