Cutaneous hyperpigmentation following bleomycin sclerotherapy for vascular malformations

Pediatr Dermatol. 2022 Jan;39(1):103-106. doi: 10.1111/pde.14869. Epub 2021 Dec 12.

Abstract

Systemic bleomycin therapy is associated with pulmonary fibrosis and cutaneous side effects. While it is believed that there is little to no systemic distribution of bleomycin when utilized to treat vascular malformations (VMs), we present a case series in which cutaneous, adhesive-related hyperpigmentation suggests that there is systemic egress of bleomycin following direct puncture sclerotherapy (DPS). This risk of hyperpigmentation after intralesional bleomycin should be discussed with patients, and steps to minimize the chances of it occurring should be implemented.

Keywords: bleomycin; hyperpigmentation; sclerotherapy; vascular malformations.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bleomycin / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Hyperpigmentation* / chemically induced
  • Hyperpigmentation* / drug therapy
  • Injections, Intralesional
  • Sclerosing Solutions / adverse effects
  • Sclerotherapy / adverse effects
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular Malformations* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Sclerosing Solutions
  • Bleomycin