Melasma: a review.

Author: Victor FC, Gelber J, Rao B

Author affiliation: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.

Publication date & source: 2004.03, J Cutan Med Surg., 8(2):97-102. Epub 2004 May 4.

Publication type: Review; Review, Tutorial

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.

Indexes of Skin Care Research Abstracts by Subject Category Most Recent

Web SmartSkinCare.com

Home | About Us | Contact Us | Ask a Question | Resources

Copyright © 1999-2008 by Dr. G. Todorov / SmartSkinCare.com
Site Disclaimer | Copyright Certification