Topical chemotherapy of pigment abnormalities in surgical patients

Disorders of epidermal pigmentation not amenable to surgical intervention were treated with topical agents in 15 patients. In cases of hypopigmentation, methoxsalen 1% solution was applied prior to photosensitizing ultraviolet light exposures on alternate days for 2 to 6 months. In cases of hyperpigmentation, hydroquinone 4%, retinoic acid 0.05%, and triamcinolone acetonide 0.25% were applied twice daily for 6 weeks. Of three patients with surgically induced depigmentation, all had moderate repigmentation. Of 12 patients with hyperpigmentation, 4 had significant resolution, 5 had partial resolution, and 3 failed to complete the study. Overall, 6 of the 15 patients reported marked satisfaction with their therapy. Mild localized phototoxicity or irritant reactions were the only complications. Topical chemotherapy produced subjective and objective improvement in all patients who completed a therapeutic trial for either hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, and in several patients the results were excellent. The safety of these medications and the lack of acceptable alternatives justify their further use in appropriate clinical settings.