Publication:

Association of serum iron profile in female patients with melasma

Background Melasma, an acquired pigmentary disorder, presents as symmetric, hyperpigmented macules and patches, primarily on the face. Its prevalence ranges from 1.5% to 33.3% and affects women more than men, impacting self-image and quality of life. Genetic predisposition, sun exposure, and hormonal factors significantly increase tyrosinase activity. The study aims to find an association between serum iron profile and melasma among female patients.

Methods This hospital-based cross-sectional study occurred in the Department of Dermatology and Venereology at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, enrolling 100 women from July 2022 to June 2023. Participants were divided into groups: Group A (patients with melasma) and Group B (healthy respondents without melasma).

Results The study compared two groups, finding no significant differences in age, marital status, occupation, or income. Group A had a higher percentage of patients with a family history of melasma (70% vs 28%) and significantly lower levels of hemoglobin, serum ferritin, iron, and transferrin saturation, but higher TIBC levels compared to Group B. Melasma was mainly central facial and symmetrical. Group A had a higher frequency of low haemoglobin, ferritin, iron, and transferrin saturation. The mMASI scores showed a negative correlation with hemoglobin, iron, ferritin, and transferrin saturation, and a positive correlation with TIBC, indicating more severe melasma with poorer iron profiles.

Conclusions There was a significant inverse correlation between low body iron stores and the severity of melasma, indicating that iron deficiency may contribute to or aggravate melasma in females. Therefore, the findings suggest that iron supplementation could improve treatment outcomes for melasma.