In simple words: Photocontact dermatitis is a skin rash caused by a substance that reacts badly to sunlight. This reaction usually shows up as a rash in areas exposed to the sun.It's often triggered by things like perfumes or certain plants. Treatment might involve avoiding the substance and using special creams.

L56.2, Photocontact dermatitis [berloque dermatitis], is an ICD-10-CM code classifying a specific type of dermatitis resulting from a photosensitive reaction.It occurs when a substance (e.g., certain perfumes, plant oils, medications) interacts with ultraviolet (UV) light to cause an allergic skin reaction. The reaction typically presents as an eczematous rash, often appearing in sun-exposed areas.The diagnosis requires a history of contact with a suspected photosensitizing agent, followed by exposure to UV light, and the characteristic clinical presentation.Additional codes may be used to specify the source of the UV radiation, such as W89 (exposure to sunlight) or X32 (exposure to other specified forms of ionizing radiation).The severity can range from mild irritation to significant inflammation and blistering.Treatment may include avoiding the causative agent, topical corticosteroids, and in some cases, systemic therapy.

Example 1: A patient presents with a rash on their face and neck after using a new perfume. The rash is more pronounced in sun-exposed areas. The diagnosis of photocontact dermatitis is made after considering the history of perfume use and the distribution of the rash. Treatment consists of discontinuing perfume use and applying a topical corticosteroid cream., A gardener develops a rash on their arms and hands after handling a particular type of plant. The rash is aggravated by sun exposure.The diagnosis is confirmed through a patch test identifying the plant extract as the causative allergen.Treatment involves avoidance of the plant and topical corticosteroid therapy., A patient taking a new medication develops a widespread rash that is more noticeable in sun-exposed areas. The diagnosis of photocontact dermatitis is suspected, and the medication is discontinued. The patient's rash resolves with topical corticosteroids and avoidance of the medication.Further evaluation may be required to determine if the medication was the sole cause or if other contributing factors are involved.

Detailed patient history including exposure to potential photosensitizing agents (perfumes, plants, medications, etc.) and sun exposure.Description of the rash's location, appearance (erythema, edema, vesicles, etc.), and evolution. Results of any allergy testing or patch testing performed to identify the causative agent. Documentation of treatment plan (avoidance of allergen, topical corticosteroids, other therapies).Photographs may be helpful for documenting the rash's appearance.

** Berloque dermatitis is a specific type of photocontact dermatitis typically occurring in areas of skin exposed to perfume or other topical agents that become phototoxic upon sun exposure.Accurate documentation of the causative agent is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and management.Pay close attention to the distinction between phototoxic reactions and photoallergic reactions.