A 64-year-old Air Commodore with chronic Solar Dermatitis due to multiple food allergies associated with Asthma.

A 64-year-old Air Commodore with a known case of Solar Dermatitis on his face since 9 years reported to the clinic. He presented with a persistent erythematous rash. He also complained of pruritis (severe itching) and burning. Initially the rash would fade away by itself, but off late it had increased in size. The dermatitis increased with exposure to sun or artificial light.

The patient also suffered from asthma. He had sneezing and difficulty in breathing. These complaints were aggravated due to known food allergies (pulses, moong, groundnut etc). He had been on bronchodilators as and when necessary. He was hypertensive and was on antihypertensive treatment.

He had an average appetite. There was great craving for sweets.He would perspire profusely on the scalp, which would often stain the clothes.There was constipation, as well.

He had retired as an Airforce Commodore, and stayed with his wife. Post retirement, he was working as a consultant for ISO procedures. He used to get angry quite often although he would suppress his anger, mainly to avoid, trouble to others. He was very sympathetic towards people who were suffering. He had a huge social circle. He was quite outspoken and would say anything abruptly. His lifestyle was very stressful in the Airforce. He was very anxious by nature.

He had food allergies to Dals / Lentils (Tur, Moong, and Chana), Groundnut, Cabbage, Snake Gourd, Fruits (Apple, Grapes, and Guava), Milk and Milk products (except curd).

He had suffered from frequent colds in his childhood. His mother was hypertensive and his paternal grandmother was a diabetic. Apart from this, there were no other major illnesses in the family.

After a detailed case history, he was prescribed an individualised homeopathic medicine. After three months of treatment, there was considerable improvement in his Dermatitis by upto 60 %. His itching and burning were effectively controlled. The earlier rough texture of his skin, smoothened to a great extent. After continuing the homeopathic treatment, there was significant improvement of upto 80%. Consequently, his dosage of antihistaminics was slowly tapered off. He was asked to continue with homeopathic treatment for some more time to get further relief.