Periocular skin hyperpigmentation in children treated with prostaglandin analogues

Abstract

Purpose: To report periocular skin hyperpigmentation related to prostaglandin analogue (PGA) use in children with glaucoma.

Methods: This cross-sectional study examined children treated with PGA for at least 6 months between June 2013 and December 2013. The pigmentation scores of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids and cheek were recorded with a chromameter. Hyperpigmentation was defined as a positive difference in scores between the cheek and the upper/lower eyelid. The influence of age, baseline skin pigmentation, duration of PGA, type of PGA and mono- or multitherapy on hyperpigmentation were evaluated. Subjective grading of pigmentation on standardized face photographs and the parent's perception of hyperpigmentation were also recorded. A P value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Result: A total of 55 patients were included. Hyperpigmentation of the upper and lower eyelids occurred in all eyes. Subjectively, 26 (47%) eyes had mild and 14 (26%) moderate hyperpigmentation. The upper eyelid showed significantly greater hyperpigmentation than the lower eyelid (P = 0.00004). Chromameter measurements overlapped with pigmentation grading on photographs. The type of and duration of PGA use, PGA mono- or multidrug therapy or baseline skin pigmentation had no effect on the grade of hyperpigmentation.

Conclusions: PGA use for more than 6 months was associated with periocular skin hyperpigmentation that was greater in the upper eyelid versus lower eyelid. All variables examined failed to show a relationship with the grade of hyperpigmentation.