A Case of Unilateral Hyperpigmentation

Abstract

Phytophotodermatitis is a cutaneous phototoxic reaction resulting from contact with plant compounds such as furocoumarin in citrus fruits, followed by exposure to ultraviolet light. Erythema and vesicles appear on the contact area, followed by hyperpigmented lesions. Hyperpigmentation may exist for weeks to months before fading but can remain up to several years. Diagnosis is often challenging due to the variety of clinical presentations, and it is not always easy to identify trigger exposures. A detailed history is key to diagnosis. We herein report a case of lime-induced phytophotodermatitis which was initially mistaken for unilateral lentiginosis. The patient underwent Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment with immediate improvement.