Treatment of poikiloderma of Civatte with an intense pulsed light source.

BACKGROUND

Effective treatment of poikiloderma of Civatte combines elimination of both the vascular and pigmented components simultaneously. A broad spectrum, noncoherent, intense pulsed light (IPL) source delivers multiple wavelengths with software controlled pulse durations and sequencing, which permits treatment of both vascular and pigmented lesions simultaneously.

OBJECTIVE

To determine response and side effects of poikiloderma of Civatte of the neck and chest when treated by IPL.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty-five patients randomly selected with typical changes of poikiloderma of Civatte on the neck and/or upper chest were treated with one to five treatments using IPL.

RESULTS

Clearance of more than 75% of telangiectasias and hyperpigmentation comprising poikiloderma was observed. The incidence of side effects was 5%, including pigment changes. In many cases, improved skin texture was noted both by physician and patient.

CONCLUSION

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.