Clinical Profile of Male Melasma and Association of its Severity with Serum Testosterone

Abstract

Introduction

Melasma is a common skin condition presenting with symmetric brown pigmentation on sun exposed areas, especially face. Most of the studies in melasma have been focused on females. Few studies in male melasma have revealed lower level of serum testosterone level.

This study aimed to describe male melasma in terms of clinical presentation, severity, and relationship with serum testosterone levels.

Methods:

This was a descriptive study where cases of male melasma were assessed for clinical patterns and severity using modified melasma area severity index(mMASI). The association of severity of melasma with serum testosterone level was determined.

Results:

Forty-two males with melasma were enrolled in the study. The age ranged from 20 years to 57 years, with a mean age of 32.7±7.5 years. Majority had Fitzpatrick’s skin type IV and malar pattern was predominant. Average time of sun exposure ranged from 30 minutes to 8 hours. mMASI score ranged from 2.40 to 14.90. The association between duration of sun exposure and melasma severity was not statistically significant (p= 0.158). Serum testosterone level was lower than the reference range in 14(33.3%) cases. The association of melasma severity with low serum testosterone level was statistically significant (p= 0.031).

Conclusion:

This study described an association between melasma severity and low serum testosterone level in men. However, a multicenter case and control study with more detailed epidemiological exploration is needed.