Derm News: 2007.27(3)

Smoothing the mosaic subclinical melanoderma by calcipotriol

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 21(5):657-661
C Piérard-Franchimont, P Paquet, P Quatresooz, GE Piérard
ABSTRACT

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 D3 and its analogues influence the biology of keratinocytes and melanocytes.

Objectives

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 D3 derivative.

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The Derm News service provided by the Editorial Consultants of Skin Therapy Letter^© and its founding editor Dr. Stuart Maddin.