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Solar Urticaria

Rare immediate-type photosensitivity disorder presenting with pruritic wheals appearing within minutes of UV or visible light exposure and resolving within hours of cessation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Solar Urticaria?

Solar urticaria is a rare chronic photodermatosis characterized by immediate (Type I) hypersensitivity to specific wavelengths of UV (UVA, UVB) or visible light, leading to mast cell degranulation upon photon-induced antigen formation in the skin.

Wheals appear within 5-10 minutes of light exposure on sun-exposed areas (face, neck, arms, chest), accompanied by intense pruritus, burning, and erythema. Lesions resolve within 1-24 hours after avoiding light exposure.

Diagnosis is confirmed by phototesting with monochromator or solar simulator to identify provoking wavelengths. Treatment combines strict photoprotection (clothing, sunscreens with iron oxides for visible light), antihistamines, omalizumab, and gradual phototherapy desensitization.

Symptoms

Wheals appearing within 5-10 minutes of sun or visible light exposure
Intense pruritus and burning sensation on light-exposed skin
Erythema and edema in sun-exposed areas (face, neck, arms)
Resolution within 1-24 hours after light avoidance
Possible systemic symptoms (headache, dizziness, syncope) with extensive exposure
Worsening in spring and summer months
Anaphylactic-like reactions in severe cases

Risk Factors

Female sex predominance
Young to middle-aged adults (20-40 years)
Atopic background (eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis)
Family history of photosensitivity disorders
Drug-induced solar urticaria (rare)
Persistent UV exposure in genetically predisposed individuals
Coexisting connective tissue disease (rare)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Recurrent pruritic wheals developing minutes after sun exposure
  • Anaphylactic-like symptoms with extensive light exposure
  • Significant impairment of outdoor activities
  • Failure of standard antihistamine therapy
  • Suspected drug-induced photosensitivity
  • Need for phototesting to identify action spectrum
  • Consideration for omalizumab or phototherapy desensitization

Treatment Methods

01
Strict photoprotection: broad-spectrum sunscreen with iron oxides for visible light, protective clothing, hats
02
Avoidance of provoking wavelengths and outdoor activities at peak UV times
03
High-dose H1 antihistamines (cetirizine, fexofenadine up to 4x daily dose)
04
Omalizumab (anti-IgE) for severe refractory cases
05
Gradual UVA/UVB phototherapy desensitization (rush hardening)
06
Plasmapheresis or IVIG in extreme refractory cases
07
Avoid drugs that may exacerbate photosensitivity (porphyrinogenic, photosensitizing drugs)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.