The study of the biological effects of ultraviolet and visible light on the skin has expanded rapidly over the last 20 years, recognizing the clinical significance of light sensitive skin disorders. This book addresses all aspects of photodermatology by providing a clear straightforward introduction to these diseases, their investigation, diagnosis and management, including the use of lasers. Each light sensitive disorder and each type of phototherapy is supported by the principles of the underlying photophysics, chemistry and biology. Doctors, nurses and technicians all have an important role to play in the diagnosis of photodermatoses and in the administration of phototherapy. This concise, richly illustrated text provides them with valuable insights and a good working overview of the light related areas of dermatology.

Introduction. Elementary Photobiology and Photophysics. Phototest Equipment. Photoprotection. Polymorphic Light Eruption. Hydroa Vacciniforme. Chronic Actinic Dermatitis. Solar Urticaria. Actinic Prurigo. Juvenile Springtime Eruption. Photoaggravated Dermatoses. Drug Induced Photosensitivity. Photoallergy/Photopatch Testing. Phytophotodermatitis. Photohistopathology. Porphyrin Biochemistry: Laboratory Studies. Genophotodermatoses. The Cutaneous Porphyrias. Ultraviolet Phototherapy and Photochemotherapy of Skin Disease. Photodynamic Therapy. Laser-Tissue Interactions. Laser Therapy for Vascular Lesions. Laser Therapy for Pigmented Lesions and Tattoos. Ablative and Non-ablative Laser Skin Resurfacing. Laser Hair Removal.