Characteristics and triggering factors of Melasma patients: A retrospective analysis

Background: Melasma is a common acquired hyperpigmentation disorder primarily affecting sun-exposed areas of the skin, particularly in women of reproductive age. Its etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, ultraviolet (UV) exposure, hormonal influences, and other environmental triggers. Aim of the study: This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics and major triggering factors of melasma in female patients through a retrospective approach. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh, from July 2022 to June 2023. Fifty female patients diagnosed with melasma were enrolled based on clinical and Wood’s lamp examination findings. Demographic data, lesion characteristics, and potential triggering factors, including sun exposure, hormonal influences, and cosmetic use, were documented and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Result: The mean age of participants was 37.28±9.33 years, with 38% of patients aged between 37-46 years. The majority were married and housewives. Fitzpatrick skin phototype III was the most prevalent. The malar region was the most commonly affected site (56%), and light brown pigmentation was the predominant lesion color (56%). Sun exposure was identified as the leading precipitating factor (96%), followed by cosmetic use (68%) and hormonal influences (50%). Among comorbidities, arterial hypertension was the most frequently observed condition. Conclusion: Sun exposure, cosmetic products, and hormonal fluctuations significantly contribute to melasma development. Preventive strategies, including rigorous sun protection, cautious cosmetic selection, and hormonal regulation, are essential for effective melasma management. Further research is required to explore advanced therapeutic approaches tailored to individual risk factors. Keywords: Melasma, Hyperpigmentation, Sun exposure, Hormonal influences, Fitzpatrick skin type Corresponding author: Dr. Tamanna Naznin, Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology & Venereology, Medical College for Women and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh.