Poikiloderma of Civatte

Civatte was a French dermatologist who first described a common weathering change which affects the skin of the sides and front of the neck.

Poikiloderma of Civatte characteristically spares the shaded area under the chin. The skin in the affected skin is red-brown with prominent hair follicles. The term "poikiloderma" refers to a change in the skin where there is thinning, increased pigmentation and dilation of the fine blood vessels (telangiectasia).

Poikiloderma of Civatte

What is the cause of poikiloderma of Civatte?

The exact cause is unknown. Contributing factors are:

• Fair skin
• Accumulated sun exposure
• Photosensitising components of cosmetics and toiletries especially perfumes
• Hormonal factors

Treatment

The results of treatment may be disappointing.

• Sun protection including daily broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
• Avoid all perfumes on or near the affected area, including those in soap
• Hydroquinone-containing preparations may help fade the pigmentation
• Exfoliants including long term use of alpha hydroxy-acids and/or tretinoin
• Pulsed dye laser (PDL) and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments seem the best way to reduce the telangiectasia and pigmentation