A Study Of Use Of Dermatoscopy In The Classification Of Melasma In Patients Attending A Tertiary Care Centre

ABSTRACT

Background:Melasma is one of the most common causes of acquired facial melanosis in Indian patients. Dermatoscopy is a non invasive office tool which magnifies the surface and sub-surface structures of skin. It helps in early diagnosis and monitoring the treatment of melasma. The present study was carried out to evaluate melasma both clinically and dermoscopically.Methods:Atotal of 90 patients with clinical diagnosis of melasma were enrolled in the study. Clinical and dermatoscopic evaluation were done and all findings recorded.Results:Out of 90 patients enrolled, 83 were females and 7 were males. Centrofacial type was the most common clinical type of melasma (57.7%). On dermatoscopic examination, 56.2% had epidermal melasma, 36.7% had mixed melasma and 11.1% had dermal melasma. The most common dermatoscopic pattern was sparing of follicles seen in 80% of cases.Conclusion:Melasma has significant psychological impact in the patient. Dermatoscopy Ahelps in diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of therapeutic efficacy. It also reduces the need of invasive techniques like biopsy on face.