Melasma: Through the eye of a dermoscope

Abstract

Background: Melasma is a human melanogenesis dysfunction that results in localized, chronic acquired hypermelanosis of the skin. Dermoscopy is a new non-invasive tool which is used to visualise the pigment colour and distribution. This study was undertaken to explore the usefulness of dermoscope in comparison to Wood’s lamp in melasma. Methods: A total of 50 patients of melasma were examined clinically, under Wood’s lamp and with dermoscope. All the findings were recorded, described and analysed. Results: The data was compared using SPSS software and the degree of agreement between Wood’s lamp and dermoscopy was found to be substantial (K =0.833, p =<0.001). Conclusions: Dermoscopy is better tool in determining the depth of pigmentation. It gives an additional advantage to visualize the vasculature.