Smoothing the mosaic subclinical melanoderma by calcipotriol.
BACKGROUND
The observation of photo-exposed skin under ultraviolet light reveals a mosaic pattern of varying intensity in epidermal melanization. Several patterns of mosaic subclinical melanoderma (MSM) have been described using a specially designed CCD camera and the ultraviolet light-enhanced visualization (ULEV) method. Vitamin D(3) and its analogues influence the biology of keratinocytes and melanocytes.


OBJECTIVE
To assess the effect of calcipotriol on MSM.


METHODS
This randomized split-face study was conducted in 27 men to compare the effect of once daily applications of 5% calcipotriol cream or a moisturizing cream on the heterogeneity of facial MSM. Computerized image analysis of video images was used at 1-month intervals before and during a 2-month treatment, as well as during a 3-month follow-up.


RESULTS
At both sites, the average melanin content of the epidermis showed no significant change over time. However, the mottled appearance was smoothened at the calcipotriol site, whereas it was increased at the site receiving the moisturizer.


CONCLUSIONS
The decreased heterogeneity in MSM after calcipotriol applications suggests a control of the epidermal melanocyte unit by the vitamin D(3) derivative.
Piérard-Franchimont
C
C
Department of Dermatopathology, University Hospital of Liège, Belgium.
Paquet
P
P
Quatresooz
P
P
Piérard
G E
GE
D000287:Administration, Topical; D002117:Calcitriol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008297:Male; D008548:Melanosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects
D003879:Dermatologic Agents; C055085:calcipotriene; D002117:Calcitriol