How do you treat Poikiloderma of Civatte?
No specific treatment exists for poikiloderma of Civatte but there are various remedies, such as topical retinoids, hydroquinone, and alpha hydroxyl acids that may help. It is very important to protect the skin from the sun to prevent further damage. Avoid being outside in the direct sunlight from 10am-3pm.
What is poikiloderma vasculare atrophicans?
Poikiloderma vasculare atrophicans (PVA) is a rare variant of mycosis fungoides, and is characterized by generalized hyperkeratotic scaly papules in net-like, retiform, or zebra-like patterns.
What causes cigarette paper skin?
This, in part, is the result of degenerative liquefaction of the stratum basale (bottom cell-layer) of the epidermis. Atrophy of the skin gives it a thin, dry and wrinkled appearance, which in PVA-affected individuals has been described as “cigarette paper”.
Does Poikiloderma of Civatte go away?
If left untreated, poikiloderma of civatte may improve marginally with the use of sun protection (photoprotection). With diligent sun avoidance and active sun protection, the brown areas may fade, however the red areas will be unchanged.
Is Poikiloderma of Civatte painful?
Poikiloderma of Civatte is usually asymptomatic but some patients can feel mild burning, itching, episodic flushing and sensitive skin in the affected area.
What is the best treatment for Poikiloderma?
The best forms of treatment for Poikiloderma of Civatte are lasers that can address reds and browns and lasers that stimulate collagen regrowth. Some examples are Pulsed Dye Lasers, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy and non-ablative fractional laser (such as Fraxel).
Where is mycosis fungoides?
Mycosis fungoides was so named because the tumors can resemble mushrooms, a type of fungus. Common locations for tumor development include the upper thighs and groin, breasts, armpits, and the crook of the elbow. Open sores may develop on the tumors, often leading to infection.
What is poikiloderma of Civatte?
The term ‘poikiloderma’ refers to a skin change with atrophy where hypopigmentation / hyperpigmentation changes and dilation of the fine blood vessels (telangiectasia) can be seen in the affected skin. The condition was first described in 1923 by a French dermatologist named Civatte. Who gets poikiloderma of Civatte?
What is the role of IPL in the treatment of poikiloderma Civatte?
IPL is an effective mode of therapy for poikiloderma of Civatte. It offers a reduction of pigment and telangiectasias with a low risk profile. Additional benefits include subjective changes of improvement in skin texture.
What are the diseases associated with poikiloderma?
Connective tissue diseases, such as dermatomyositis and lupus, are also incriminated in the appearance of this medical conditions. For the majority of the cases of poikiloderma there is no specific medical treatment to follow.
What are the treatment options for poikiloderma?
For the majority of the cases of poikiloderma there is no specific medical treatment to follow. However, people who are diagnosed with this medical condition are advised to avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear sunscreen with SPF 50+.