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Extra-facial melasma: clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical case-control study
C G Ritter1, D V C Fiss, J A T Borges da Costa
1Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. clariceritter@gmail.com
Summary
Extra-facial melasma, often seen in post-menopausal women, is linked to family history and previous facial melasma. Histopathology shows increased melanin but a normal melanocyte count, suggesting abnormal melanin production or distribution.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pigmentary Disorders
Background:
- Extra-facial melasma presents unique clinical and etiological challenges.
- Limited research exists on this specific dermatosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical features of extra-facial melasma.
- To compare affected skin with unaffected skin in patients.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involved 45 patients with extra-facial melasma and 45 controls.
- Biopsies from 36 patients were analyzed using HE, Fontana-Masson staining, and immunohistochemistry.
- Image analysis software quantified objective measurements.
Main Results:
- The melasma group comprised mostly post-menopausal women.
- A positive family history of melasma was more common in affected patients.
- Histopathology revealed increased basal hyperpigmentation and melanin density, but no difference in melanocyte count compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Extra-facial melasma is associated with menopause, family history, and prior facial melasma.
- Histopathological findings resemble facial melasma, indicating abnormal melanin production or distribution rather than increased melanocytes.
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