Quinine induced photosensitivity: clinical and experimental studies

Quinine induced photosensitivity, an infrequently described adverse effect, is reported in four patients. The clinical presentation and distribution was that of a light exposed site eruption characterized by oedema and erythema in three patients, and by lichen planus in the fourth. Monochromator phototesting demonstrated abnormal delayed erythema responses in the UVB, UVA and visible wavebands. The clinical features suggested a phototoxic effect but laboratory studies indicated that the molecular mechanisms involved are unusual.

Clinical and phototest evidence of abnormal photosensitivity persisted for some months after stopping quinine. Broad spectrum sunscreens are advised for the management of such patients and, where possible, cessation of quinine administration.