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POIKILODERMA

Poikiloderma of Civatte

Man with Poikiloderma on neckPoikiloderma is a condition that occurs most commonly on the neck and chest. It presents as a mottled, blotchy pigmentation of browns and reds seen on the sides of the neck upper chest. Most patients that have the condition have a mild form and do not seek medical attention. In most patients it is only a cosmetic concern.

Poikiloderma is more of a reaction of the skin rather than an actual disease. The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but chronic exposure to sun light appears to be the primary factor. Most lesions occur on sun-exposed areas of the neck and chest with the area below the chin spared because of the shading that it provides.
The easiest way to prevent against the development of Poikiloderma is to stay out of the sun. If you must be exposed to the sun, make sure to use sunscreen with an SPF factor of at least 15. Wonen with Poikiloderma of the neck

Lasers are an effective tool in treating this condition. The laser energy passes through the skin and is absorbed by the pigmentation and small dilated blood vessels. The pigment is fractured and the particles are then absorbed by the body. The small, aberrant blood vessels are destroyed and are also absorbed. In most cases the discoloration is eliminated or greatly reduced after a few treatments. There is no down time associated with this procedure so it will not interfere with your other activities. Three to five treatments are usually needed to provide optimum results

In some patients special skin care products are used afterward to lessen the appearance of the pigmentation.