Poikiloderma is a skin condition characterized by patches of discolored skin that can be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. It can be caused by prolonged sun exposure, congenital conditions, or diseases. Treatment may include laser therapy or surgery if accompanied by malignancies.
Poikiloderma is a change in skin color. People who develop poikiloderma have patches of discolored skin that can vary widely in hue. There are a number of reasons people may develop this characteristic skin discoloration, and usually a dermatologist will need to evaluate a patient to provide a diagnosis. It is important to see a doctor about changes in skin color or texture because they can be a sign of malignancies.
In someone with poikiloderma, both hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation can be seen. Hypopigmentation is characterized by patches that appear lighter than the surrounding skin and can be white, pinkish, or tan, depending on the patient’s skin color. In hyperpigmentation, the skin darkens. Many patients also have enlarged capillaries in the affected area, a condition known as telangiectasia. The skin may also be reddish, a symptom known as erythema, and the patient’s skin may itch, burn, or hurt.
A common reason for poikiloderma is prolonged exposure to the sun, especially in areas where the ozone layer is thin. Known as sun aging or Civatte poikiloderma, this type of poikiloderma is often seen around the face and on the arms. Over time, the skin gradually darkens from sun exposure. Often the area under the chin remains pale because it is sheltered from the sun. This discoloration is not dangerous, but some patients may find it unsightly and seek treatment to resolve it.
Changes in skin color can also accompany cancers, some congenital conditions, and various diseases that lead to changes in skin color. If a patient presents with a skin disorder thought to be poikiloderma, a dermatologist may perform a curettage for examination under a microscope in a pathology laboratory. The doctor typically interviews the patient to gather information about other symptoms the patient may be experiencing, and further tests may be recommended if the doctor suspects that poikiloderma is caused by an underlying medical problem.
Treatments for poikiloderma can include laser therapy that reduces discoloration, along with topical medications to soothe skin that may be itchy or irritated. If the discoloration is caused by another medical problem, sometimes treatment will fix the discoloration as well. In cases where poikiloderma is accompanied by malignancies, surgery may be required to remove the cancerous growths before they have an opportunity to metastasize to other areas of the body.
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