Melasma

Question 1

What is melasma?

Answer 1

Acquired symmetrical hyperpigmentation of sun exposed skin of face and neck usually associated with pregnancy.

Question 2

What population is more likely to develop melasma?

Answer 2

Dark complexioned persons

Question 3

What is the appearance of melasma lesions?

Answer 3

Bilateral light to dark brown cutaneous macules that vary in size from a few mm to 2cm.

Question 4

How and where do melasma lesions tend to develop?

Answer 4

Develop slowly with sun exposure and occur primarily on midface, forehead, upper lip, chin, and rarely on arms.

Not unusual for entire face to be involved.

Question 5

What can be used to visually localize melanin to the epidermis or dermis?

Answer 5

Wood lamp

Question 6

How does the use of a wood lamp allow use to visually localize the melanin to the epidermis or dermis?

Answer 6

Epidermal pigment is enhanced whereas dermal pigment is not

Question 7

What is the histopathologic characteristic of melasma?

Answer 7

Increased melanin deposition within an otherwise unremarkable epidermis

Question 8

Tx for melasma?

Answer 8

Sun avoidance and use of sunscreens with zinc oxide or Ti oxide

Question 9

Is there a potential for malignant transformation in melasma?

Answer 9

NO