Similar term(s): Chronic photosensitivity dermatitis, Actinic reticuloid syndrome.
Definition:
Chronic actinic dermatitis is a rare skin disease that mainly affects
middle-aged and elderly men. It is characterised by severely itchy, red,
inflamed, and thickened dry skin due to exposure to ultraviolet radiation and
frequently also visible light from the sun or artificial lighting. The cause
remains unknown. Treatment consists in avoiding exposure to sunlight.