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Published on: January 19, 2024
Melasma: a review
Frank C Victor1, Jeremy Gelber, Babar Rao
1Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
Objective:
To better understand melasma, a review of its etiologic factors, classification, pathogenesis, and treatment was undertaken.
Methods:
Articles discussing the above aspects of melasma were used to demonstrate what is currently known about the disease and how to treat it.
Results:
Melasma is associated with many etiologic factors, most importantly, sun exposure. It occurs in three distributions and has four reported patterns of pigmentation. Among the many differences between melasma and normal skin, melasma skin contains increased melanin, melanocytes, and melanosomes, as well as increased synthesis of tyrosinase. Its pathogenesis remains largely unknown. Treatment consists of phenolic and nonphenolic depigmenting agents, chemical peels, lasers, and dermabrasion.
Conclusion:
Melasma is a common skin disorder. Although melasma has been studied, its pathogenesis remains largely unknown and its treatment is still met with difficulty. Randomized controlled trials involving larger numbers of patients and comparing treatments, as well as studying combination therapies, would be beneficial.
Insights
Melasma, a common skin disorder, is linked to sun exposure and involves increased melanin. Its exact cause remains unknown, and effective treatments are challenging, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathogenesis of skin conditions
Background:
- Melasma is a prevalent hyperpigmentation disorder.
- Understanding its triggers and mechanisms is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the etiologic factors, classification, pathogenesis, and treatment of melasma.
- To synthesize current knowledge on melasma for clinical application.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of articles pertaining to melasma.
- Analysis of existing data on disease characteristics and therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- Sun exposure is a primary etiologic factor for melasma.
- Histological findings include increased melanin, melanocytes, and melanosomes.
- Current treatments involve depigmenting agents, chemical peels, lasers, and dermabrasion.
Conclusions:
- Melasma pathogenesis is not fully elucidated.
- Treatment of melasma presents significant challenges.
- Further randomized controlled trials are needed to compare therapies and explore combination treatments.
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