Poikiloderma

Poikiloderma is a skin condition that consists of areas of hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, telangiectasias and atrophy.

Poikiloderma is most frequently seen on the chest or the neck, characterized by red colored pigment on the skin that is commonly associated with sun damage.

Health Risks

It is a condition that may present a cosmetic nuisance, yet it poses no health risks on its own.^[1]

Pathogenesis

The exact cause of poikiloderma is unknown; however, extended sun exposure, namely the ultraviolet light emitted by the sun, is the primary factor.^[2]

Causes

• Congenital

1. Rothmund-Thompson Syndrome
2. Dyskeratosis Congenita
3. Mendes da Costa Syndrome

• Other Hereditary Causes

1. Degos-Touraine Syndrome
2. Diffuse and Macular Atrophic Dermatosis
3. Hereditary Sclerosing Poikiloderma of Weary
4. Kindler Syndrome
5. Weary-Kindler Syndrome
6. Xeroderma pigmentosum

• Acquired

1. Injury to cold, heat, ionizing radiation, exposure to sensitizing chemicals
2. Lichen Planus
3. Dermatomyositis
4. Lupus Erythematosus
5. Systemic Sclerosis
6. Cutaneous T Cell Lymphomas

Treatment

Albeit difficult, treatment of poikiloderma involves the delivery of multiple wavelengths of intense pulsed light (IPL) to the affected area.^[3]

Types include:

• Poikiloderma vasculare atrophicans
• Poikiloderma of Civatte
• Hereditary sclerosing poikiloderma

See also

• Osteopoikilosis
• List of cutaneous conditions

References

1. Celibre Medical "Poikiloderma More Information", Celibre.com, referenced July 22, 2011.
2. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology "Dermatologic Disease Database", aocd.org, referenced July 22, 2011.
3. PubMed.gov "Treatment of poikiloderma of Civatte with an intense pulsed light source", PubMed.gov, referenced July 22, 2011.