What is poikiloderma of civatte?
Poikiloderma of civatte was first described in 1923 and refers to redness and mottled pigment on sides of neck. The area under chin is usually unaffected.
This condition is more commonly seen in women and in areas of high UV exposure.
What causes poikiloderma of civatte?
The cause of Poikiloderma of Civatte is unknown. However, fair skin, sun exposure, hormonal factors and some components of cosmetics and toiletries (photosensitising components) are all thought to play a part in the development of the condition.
What does poikiloderma of civatte look like?
Skin thinning (atrophy), redness from enlarged blood vessels (erythema) and colour (pigmentary) changes are seen in sun-exposed skin.
Poikiloderma of civatte most commonly affects the sides of the neck whilst the area under the neck remains characteristically unaffected. Poikiloderma of civatte may also affect other areas on the face.
What other problems can occur with poikiloderma of civatte?
There are no known medical problems associated with the condition.
Similar changes on the neck may be seen in genetic skin conditions such as Rothmund-Thomson syndrome, Bloom syndrome and connective tissue diseases (such as dermatomyositis, lupus erythematosus and mycosis fungoides). Similar changes may also be seen in skin that has been treated previously with radiotherapy.
How is poikiloderma of civatte diagnosed?
The diagnosis is usually made by looking at and assessing the skin. No formal tests are required.
In some cases a skin biopsy and/or blood tests are needed to exclude other conditions which have a similar appearance.
Treatment of poikiloderma of civatte:
While a combination of treatments is often recommended, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments will help reduce both redness and pigmentation. Treatments with IPL will also help stimulate collagen production, thereby improving skin tightening and promoting anti-aging.
Chemical Peels: the hyper pigmentation associated with Poikiloderma often resides deep within the epidermal-dermal layers. A course of skin peels may be useful to resurface damaged skin, improving skin complexion as well as the appropriate use of homecare.
Information credited to: https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/poikiloderma-civatte/
Homecare:
Antioxidants are important for minimising cellular damage and slowing the progression of photo ageing. We recommend ZO Skin Health’s Daily Power Defense and C Bright to assist with hydration, skin barrier restoration, as well as fine lines and wrinkles.
Pigment Inhibitors and Skin Lightening Agents are great to help even out the skin tone and prevent the formation of new pigmentation, as well as improving the texture of the skin. We recommend ZO Skin Health’s Brightenex and C Bright Serums, as both assist with the treatment of hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
Skin Cell Resurfacing Agents and Collagen Stimulants such as ZO Skin Health’s Radical Night Repair (1% Retinol) will support collagen, improve skins brightness and prevent future skin damage, among many other benefits. Additionally, ZO Skin Health’s Growth Factor Serum will promote cell turnover, to help smooth the skin and provide a more even skin tone. It will also provide antioxidant protection against free radical damage, as well as other great benefits.
Sun Protection- It is highly recommended to use a sun block daily, at least 30+. We recommend ZO Skin Health’s Oclipse Sunscreen and Primer as it is fragrance free and provides a 12 hour release of antioxidant protection. It also helps to minimize inflammation, restore hydration and enhance the skins barrier. With a tint and silky matte finish, it will assist in reducing the appearance of skin imperfections.
Breast augmentation is a very common cosmetic surgery and can be a life affirming process for some women. Before going Read more
Many people find that despite exercise, small pockets of fat stubbornly refuse to dissipate. This is often a hereditary problem, Read more
Otoplasty for children and adults People who have protruding or oversized ears can elect to have cosmetic surgery done to Read more
Abdominal etching is becoming increasingly common, as the quest for the perfect male figure becomes more prominent. A six-pack, commonly Read more