ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Melasma has been shown to have a significant emotional and psychological effect on affected patients. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of the Melasma Quality of Life Scale (MELASQOL) as compared to Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). METHODS: A total of 74 female patients of melasma were asked to complete a questionnaire of MELASQOL, DLQI, and additional demographic data. The degree of melasma was determined on the basis of clinical photos by the investigator using the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI). RESULTS: The mean age of these patients was 46.3+/-8.5 years. The mean MELASQOL score was 39.8+/-16.03 and the mean DLQI score 6.7+/-4.41. The MASI and MELASQOL scores showed statistically significant correlations (p0.05, Pearson correlation=0.129). Also, multiple linear regression model shows that the correlation of MASI and MELASQOL (standardized coefficient=0.367, p0.05). CONCLUSION: We suggest that the MELASQOL could be more relevant and useful than DLQI when evaluating the quality of life for melasma patients. It is presumed that the MELASQOL might be helpful in guiding the patient to appropriate treatment methods and in tracking patient's satisfaction levels.