A clinico-epidemiological study of facial melanosis at a tertiary care center in Gujarat

Abstract

Background: A group of heterogenous entities having the common clinical feature of altered facial pigmentation have been informally called as facial melanoses. Since, the cosmetic disfigurement is easily visible, it has a lot of impact on the psychological well being of the person. Aim: To assess the patients of facial hyper pigmentary disorders for demographic , etiological and clinical profile. Methods: A prospective clinical study was conducted in a tertiary care center in Gujarat over period of 6 months. 107 patients with facial hyper pigmentary disorders were assessed by detailed history and clinical examination. Results: In our study, most common age group which sought treatment was 30-50 years. Female were predominantly affected (2.5: 1). Six different facial melanosis were observed which included melasma, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation , nevus of ota, exogenous ochronosis, Addison’s disease, and Riehl’s melanosis. Melasma was the most common disorder reported by 94 patients out of 107. Limitations: Dermoscopy could not be done to resource constraint. Conclusion: Increase in awareness and concern with appearance has led to an increase in reported incidence of facial melanosis in both sexes. Prior application of over the counter products poses difficulty in correct evaluation and treatment. Psychological evaluation forms an integral part of the treatment of these patients.