ABSTRACT
Rosenthal (1925) described Berlock dermatitis as pendant-like streaks of pigmentation on the neck, face, arms, or trunk after application of “eau de cologne” and exposure to sunlight. The phototoxic ingredient proved to be bergapten, a natural furocoumarin present in the oil of bergamot (Citrus bergamia). Several cases were reported in the 1950s and 1960s following increased use of perfumes and the greater popularity of sunbathing. Since the introduction of debergaptenized bergamot oils, Berlock dermatitis has become rare. As bergapten is present in numerous plants, various phyto-dermatoses have been observed after contact or ingestion with these plants and exposure to sunlight (photo-phyto-dermatoses). Table 22.1 summarizes the plants known to be responsible for contact/oral phototoxicity induced by the presence of bergapten. Bergapten containing Rutaceae and Apiaceae are the most common plants able to induce phytophototoxicity.
