Poikiloderma
Pronunciation: poy-kil-oh-DER-mah
A pattern of skin change combining atrophy, reticulate pigmentation, and telangiectasia, describing a triad of findings rather than a single disease entity.
Full Definition
Poikiloderma is a descriptive morphological term denoting a combination of three specific cutaneous features: epidermal atrophy (thin, wrinkled skin), reticulate hypo- and hyperpigmentation, and telangiectasia. It is not a diagnosis in itself but a pattern seen in diverse conditions including dermatomyositis, poikiloderma of Civatte (sun-exposed neck and chest), mycosis fungoides, and radiodermatitis. Editors should treat 'poikiloderma' as a descriptive rather than diagnostic term and ensure it is not used as a standalone diagnosis without a qualifying aetiology. The term should be spelled as a single word with no hyphen.
Usage
Usage note: A descriptive pattern, not a stand-alone diagnosis. Always pair with the underlying condition when used in clinical documents.
In Context
- "The neck and décolletage showed classic poikiloderma of Civatte, with mottled pigmentation and telangiectasia." — Cosmetic dermatology consultation note
- "Poikiloderma in the context of photosensitivity and proximal muscle weakness raised the diagnosis of dermatomyositis." — Rheumatology-dermatology case conference summary