A Case-Control Study on Serum Levels of 5-Alpha-Androstenedione in Females With and Without Melasma

Background: Melasma is a chronic pigmentary disorder that is characterized by symmetric hyperpigmented patches, primarily affecting the face. Although the exact pathogenesis of this disorder remains unclear, hormonal factors, particularly sex steroids, are thought to play a role. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the serum levels of 5-alpha-androstenedione in females with and without melasma. Methods: This case-control study was conducted at the Dermatology Clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ardabil Province, Iran, in 2017. A total of 141 female patients with melasma (aged 27–45 years) and an equal number of age-matched healthy controls were included in this investigation. Blood samples were collected during the luteal phase, and the serum levels of 5-alpha-androstenedione were measured following centrifugation. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS 16, with a P value set at<0.05. Results: The mean ages of the case and control groups were 31.9±3.2 and 31.1±3.8 years, respectively. The serum 5-alpha-androstenedione levels were significantly higher in the melasma group (3.05±0.11 ng/dL) compared to the control group (1.77±0.07 ng/dL, P<0.001). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that elevated serum 5-alpha-androstenedione levels may be associated with melasma, highlighting the potential role of this androgen precursor in its pathogenesis. Nonetheless, further research is needed to explore the underlying hormonal mechanisms.