PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS WITH FACIAL MELASMA IN BRAZILIAN ADULT WOMEN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Abstract:INTRODUCTION: Melasma is a chronic, acquired and localized hypermelanosis that occurs in photoexposed areas, affecting mainly women during menacme and representing the third most frequent dermatological diagnosis in Brazilian women. Several factors have been linked to the development of melasma, but none is individually responsible. Diagnosis is predominantly clinical. Examination through Wood's lamp can be useful in identifying the pigment, especially in individuals between phototypes I and III, and it may even identify subclinical macules. Despite the importance and frequency of melasma, there isn't studies that determine its prevalence at dermatological examination or subclinical prevalence. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of melasma in adult Brazilian women. METHODOLOGY: Cross-sectional study with 300 women aged 18-60 years, according to quotas proportion (2018 Brazilian Census), respecting age and self-reported color. Participants will answer a questionnaire, which will assess demographic, exposure, hormonal, family history and mood disorders factors. In addition, they will undergo a dermatological and Wood's light examination. EXPECTED RESULTS: It is expected to determine the prevalence of melasma in the female Brazilian population and to find an association between demographic, clinical and exposure factors and the prevalence of melasma. This would help to investigate risk factors and explore melasma's pathophysiology. Moreover, it is expected to estimate the prevalence of subclinical melasma.