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Friction melanosis: a clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural study in Jordanian patients
Mustafa Al-Aboosi1, Ali Abalkhail, Omer Kasim
1Jordan University of Science and Technology and Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan. abakhail@just.edu.jo
Background:
Friction melanosis (FM) is an acquired pigmentary disorder mainly affecting young people. The primary skin regions affected are located over the osseous prominences, especially the clavicular zone and upper back. Our purpose in this study was to report the clinical spectrum, histologic findings, and ultrastructural features of FM in Jordanian patients.
Methods:
Thirteen patients with FM (10 women and three men) were studied. The patients were seen at Princess Basma Teaching Hospital in north Jordan between 1999 and 2001.
Results:
Eleven patients presented with asymptomatic, diffuse, brownish patches and two presented with mottled patches on the skin over the trunk bones and limbs. All had a history of rubbing their skin repeatedly with scrub pads (loofah) or bathroom towels. Ten of the 13 cases were studied histologically. Skin biopsies from four patients were examined ultrastructurally. Both histologic and electron microscopic examination of the biopsies from our patients showed a marked increase in melanin and melanin incontinence, with a lack of amyloid in the upper dermis.
Conclusions:
FM is infrequently seen in north Jordan. We believe that repeated frictional trauma from clothing or scrub pads against the skin overlying the bony protuberances is fundamental in its pathogenesis. Other factors, such as scrub pads made of rough material (loofah), dark skin type, and individual variability, may also play a role in the pathogenesis. We advise patients not to use rough scrub pads during bathing, to avoid rubbing the skin overlying the bony prominences, to avoid rubbing vigorously, and to use a soft cotton pad instead.
Insights
Friction melanosis (FM) is a skin condition caused by repeated rubbing, often from loofahs. Avoiding rough scrubbing can prevent this acquired pigmentary disorder.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pigmentary Disorders
- Histopathology
Background:
- Friction melanosis (FM) is an acquired pigmentary disorder.
- Primarily affects young individuals on bony prominences like the clavicle and upper back.
- This study focuses on Jordanian patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the clinical spectrum of FM.
- To describe the histologic and ultrastructural features of FM.
- To investigate FM in a Jordanian cohort.
Main Methods:
- A study of 13 patients (10 women, 3 men) with FM.
- Clinical data collected between 1999-2001.
- Histologic and ultrastructural examination of skin biopsies.
Main Results:
- Most patients presented with asymptomatic brownish patches on trunk and limbs.
- All patients reported history of vigorous skin rubbing with scrub pads or towels.
- Histology and electron microscopy revealed increased melanin and melanin incontinence, without upper dermal amyloid.
Conclusions:
- Repeated frictional trauma is key to FM pathogenesis.
- Rough scrub pads, darker skin types, and individual variability may contribute.
- Recommendations include avoiding rough scrub pads and vigorous rubbing.
