Side Effect: Sunlight Sensitivity (Photosensitivity)

What is Sunlight Sensitivity (Photosensitivity)?

Sunlight sensitivity, also known as photosensitivity, is a more severe reaction of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The skin becomes more easily irritated and patients may experience sunburn-like symptoms after brief exposure to sunlight.

What does Sunlight Sensitivity (Photosensitivity) look like?

• Photosensitivity can result in a variety of symptoms, including redness, itching, blistering, and swelling of the skin. In some cases, it can also cause systemic symptoms such as fever, malaise, and joint pain.
• Long term consequences include premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Who gets Sunlight Sensitivity (Photosensitivity)?

Photosensitivity is a known side effect of certain chemotherapy treatments, including radiation therapy which can cause photosensitivity in the treated area. The majority of cancer therapies can cause photosensitivity to some extent, but some treatments that particularly carry a higher risk include:

• Fluorouracil (5-FU)
• Capecitabine (Xeloda®)
• Methotrexate (Trexall®)
• Vemurafenib (Zelboraf®)
• Dabrafenib (Tafinlar®)
• Encorafenib (Braftovi®)
• Vandetanib (Caprelsa®)
• Brigatinib (Alunbrig®)
• Rucaparib (Rubraca®)

How to prevent Sunlight Sensitivity (Photosensitivity)

• To prevent sunlight sensitivity in patients with cancer, it is important to minimize sun exposure and wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses.
• The use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 can also be helpful.
• Patients should avoid peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and seek shade whenever possible.

How to treat Sunlight Sensitivity (Photosensitivity)

The treatment of sunlight sensitivity in patients with cancer depends upon the severity of the symptoms.

• Mild cases of photosensitivity can often be managed with topical corticosteroids or antihistamines to reduce itching and inflammation.
• In more severe cases, oral corticosteroids may be necessary. In some cases, the discontinuation or adjustment of the offending medication may be necessary.