photosensitivity

[ foh-tuh-sen-si-tiv-i-tee ]

noun

1. the quality of being photosensitive.
2. abnormal sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet light, usually following exposure to certain oral or topical drugs or to other sensitizing chemicals and resulting in accelerated burning and blistering of the skin.

photosensitivity

/ fō′tō-sĕn′sĭ-tĭv′ĭ-tē /

1. Sensitivity or responsiveness to light.
2. An abnormally heightened response, especially of the skin or eyes, to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation, caused by certain disorders, medications, or chemicals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of photosensitivity¹

First recorded in 1915–20; photo- + sensitivity

Example Sentences

Researchers program strands of DNA to "direct" the self-assembly process towards molecular arrangements that give rise to beneficial properties, such as electrical conductivity, photosensitivity, and magnetism.

From Science Daily

Amlodipine, an antihypertensive drug, was known to cause this kind of photosensitivity, but the patient had started this medicine recently, months after he first mentioned the rash.

From New York Times

The photosensitivity side effect didn’t bother me for a while, but I eventually reached a point where light felt too bright to my eyes, and I had to stop taking the herb.

From Seattle Times

In addition, some chronic diseases and drug regimens, including a few acne-fighting medications and antibiotics, trigger photosensitivity.

From Washington Post

"Given the visual nature of our platform, we're beginning this work with a series of photosensitivity features," it added.

From BBC