Persistent light reaction with erythroderma caused by musk ambrette: a case report.

Abstract

Persistent light reaction is an uncommon type of photodermatitis caused mainly by musk ambrette, a synthetic fragrance material commonly used in foods and cosmetics. Erythrodermic persistent light reaction is rare. We report a case of erythroderma with underlying persistent light reaction due to musk ambrette. A 71-year-old man showed a photodermatitis that waxed and waned for five years before it became more persistent and finally evolved into erythroderma. Positive results of a photopatch test to musk ambrette and a low minimal erythema dose to ultraviolet B were noted. A biopsy specimen of the erythrodermic lesion revealed spongiotic dermatitis. The erythroderma and photodermatitis responded to systemic steroids and psoralen/ultraviolet A therapy (total dose: 90 J/cm2). We suggest that persistent light reaction be included in the differential diagnosis of erythroderma.

• Authors: L R Lan, J Y Lee, H F Kao, B J Wang, H C Chen
• Journal: Cutis (Cutis) Vol. 54 Issue 3 Pg. 167-70 (Sep 1994) ISSN: 0011-4162 [Print] United States
• PMID: 7813235 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Dinitrobenzenes
• musk ambrette (artificial)

Topics

• Aged
• Dermatitis, Exfoliative (drug therapy, etiology)
• Dinitrobenzenes (adverse effects)
• Humans
• Male
• PUVA Therapy
• Patch Tests
• Photosensitivity Disorders (drug therapy, etiology)
• Skin (pathology)
• Ultraviolet Rays (adverse effects)