Phototoxic plant burns: report of a case and review of topical wound treatment in children

Abstract

Acute photodermatitis provoked by skin contact with giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) and exposure to ultraviolet radiation is a rare cause of phytophotodermatitis in children. We report the case of a 10-year-old girl with extensive photodermatitis after contact with giant hogweed and prolonged exposure to sunlight. The lesions involved 10% of the body surface area, mainly the lower extremities. After initial application of topical steroids to the skin erythema, the topical approach was changed due to extensive bullae. Debridement and temporary wound closure with an adequate dressing was undertaken. This is the first case report of application of Suprathel (PolyMedics Innovations, Denkendorf, Germany) on a phytophototoxic burn-like wound with a favorable outcome.