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Pigmentary demarcation lines: a population survey
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|March 1, 1987
Summary
Pigmentary demarcation lines are common, especially in Black adults, often appearing in childhood. Pregnancy can also cause these lines in Black women.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Pigmentary demarcation lines (PDLs) are linear hyperpigmentations or hypopigmentations.
- Their prevalence and characteristics across diverse populations require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of pigmentary demarcation lines in an unselected population.
- To analyze the occurrence of PDLs by race, sex, and age group.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 380 unselected patients.
- Data collection stratified by race (White and Black), sex, and age groups.
Main Results:
- PDLs were observed in 79% of Black adult females (Types A & B common) and 75% of Black males (Type C common).
- 15% of White females exhibited PDLs.
- 14% of pregnant Black women developed new Type B PDLs.
Conclusions:
- Pigmentary demarcation lines are highly prevalent in Black individuals, with onset typically in early childhood.
- Pregnancy is associated with the new onset of specific PDL types in Black women.