Poikiloderma
Pronunciation: poy-KIL-oh-DER-mah
A skin condition characterised by the triad of atrophy, mottled hyper- and hypopigmentation, and telangiectasia, seen in both benign and malignant contexts.
Full Definition
Poikiloderma describes a distinct pattern of skin change incorporating three simultaneous features: epidermal atrophy, irregular pigmentary alteration (both hyper- and hypopigmentation), and superficial telangiectasia. It may arise from chronic sun exposure (poikiloderma of Civatte on the neck), radiation damage, connective tissue diseases such as dermatomyositis, or as a feature of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Editors must not confuse the term with individual components such as telangiectasia alone. The term is both a descriptive morphological pattern and, in some contexts, a named entity, requiring careful editorial distinction between its uses.
Usage
Usage note: The adjectival form 'poikilodermatous' is used in histopathological descriptions. Ensure this form is not hyphenated.
In Context
- "The histopathology report described poikilodermatous changes consistent with early-stage mycosis fungoides." — Histopathology report
- "Poikiloderma of Civatte was noted bilaterally on the lateral neck of the patient." — Outpatient dermatology clinic letter