Photosensitivity and Photoreactions in Pediatric Skin of Color

Photosensitivity is associated with a number of conditions in pediatric patients. These disorders can be organized into six categories that include (1) collagen vascular diseases, (2) idiopathic photodermatoses, (3) genetic and metabolic disorders, (4) nutritional deficiencies, (5) exogenous causes, and (6) photoaggravated conditions. An overview of the wide breadth of disorders in these subclasses is provided, with the focus of the discussion dedicated to photosensitivities, namely lupus erythematosus, actinic prurigo, hydroa vacciniforme, polymorphous light eruption, Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome, and specific subtypes of oculocutaneous albinism, with the strongest association in children of color. The epidemiologic and demographic data, clinical characteristics of these conditions, therapeutic options, prognosis, and areas of future research are reviewed. A sound understanding of these various facets will enable early diagnosis and treatment, thereby abating potential long-term sequelae of ultraviolet light exposure in children of color with photosensitizing disorders.