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Melasma of the forearms
T J O'Brien1, D Dyall-Smith, A P Hall
1Department of Dermatology, The Geelong Hospital, Australia.
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Melasma on the forearms is a common, previously unreported finding, particularly in older women using estrogen therapy. This pigmentary change presents as macular or speckled patches with distinct borders, sometimes with redness.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pigmentary disorders
Background:
- Melasma is a common facial hyperpigmentation disorder.
- Forearm melasma has not been previously documented in medical literature.
Observation:
- Melasma on the forearms presents as macular pigmentary changes.
- Lesions can be confluent or speckled with sharp demarcation.
- Erythema may be present in some cases.
Findings:
- Forearm melasma appears to be relatively common.
- It is more frequently observed in older patients.
- Postmenopausal women on supplementary estrogen are particularly susceptible.
Implications:
- This finding expands the known clinical spectrum of melasma.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology and treatment of forearm melasma.
- Clinicians should consider forearm hyperpigmentation as a potential manifestation of melasma.