Diagnosis: Sunburn
Description: Phototoxic reaction from sunlight
Morphology: Red,nonscaly
Site: Back
Sex: F
Age: 45
Type: Clinical
Submitted By: Ian McColl
Differential DiagnosisHistory:
Sunburn is commonly seen in white skin with excess sunlight. The damaging rays are UVB which only penetrate a short distance into the skin. Most cases result in skin peeling and residual freckles but severe cases can blister and give a full thickness burn. The latter will only occur if the person is unconscious or drugged in the sun. Mild cases of sunburn will give secondary tanning. Tanning is a response to skin damage in those with Type 3 and above Fitzpatrick skin types.
See this advice from the Australian Government Health Department