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Liao X, Cheng F, Jiang Y. Efficacy and safety of mesotherapy with tranexamic acid versus vitamin C in the treatment of melasma: A meta-analysis and systemic review. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:2785-2792. [PMID: 38693699 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The exact pathogenesis of melasma is not yet known, and its treatment remains challenging. Mesotherapy with tranexamic acid (TXA) and vitamin C was both reported to have certain effects on melasma. In spite of that several articles have compared the efficacy and safety of the two drugs on melasma, most of them were clinical study with small sample size. AIMS To evaluate the efficacy and safety of mesotherapy with TXA versus vitamin C in treating melasma through meta-analysis and systemic review. METHODS The authors searched PubMed, Web of Science, Springer, and ScienceDirect for studies that compared mesotherapy with TXA versus vitamin C as a treatment for melasma. Primary outcomes were change in melasma area and severity index (MASI) before and after the treatment. RESULTS Finally, five studies with a total of 127 patients were included in the systematic review. There was no statistic difference in the change in MASI score between the TXA and vitamin C groups (mean difference, 0.16; 95% CI, -0.79 to 1.11). CONCLUSIONS Mesotherapy with both TXA and vitamin C is safe and effective in the treatment of melasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Liao
- College of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P.R. China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Fengrui Cheng
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Yunlan Jiang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P.R. China
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2
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Kashikar Y, Madke B, Singh A, Meghe S, Rusia K. Mesotherapy for Melasma - An Updated Review. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND BIOALLIED SCIENCES 2024; 16:S1055-S1056. [PMID: 38882767 PMCID: PMC11174183 DOI: 10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_1192_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesotherapy is a popular novel therapeutic modality that delivers intradermal or subcutaneous microinjections of pharmaceutical compounds. Although this novel treatment method is used commonly in aesthetic dermatology, there is little information about the details of injections, efficacy, and side effects of mesotherapy in melasma. In this review, we evaluated the efficacy of various types of anti-pigmentation agents used with mesotherapy in the management of melasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash Kashikar
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bhushan Madke
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Adarshlata Singh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Soham Meghe
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kaveri Rusia
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, Maharashtra, India
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3
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Speeckaert R, Bulat V, Speeckaert MM, van Geel N. The Impact of Antioxidants on Vitiligo and Melasma: A Scoping Review and Meta-Analysis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:2082. [PMID: 38136202 PMCID: PMC10740621 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12122082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during melanogenesis make melanocytes particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, influencing their survival and melanin synthesis. Oxidative stress, significantly present in vitiligo and recently also detected in melasma, triggers inflammatory cascades and melanogenesis, making antioxidants a promising therapeutic avenue. A systematic search was conducted on Embase and Pubmed to study the efficacy of antioxidants for treating vitiligo and/or melasma. Meta-analysis was performed to assess the difference in Melasma Severity Index (MASI) scores between baseline and follow-up. Various antioxidants like polypodium leucotomos, ginkgo biloba, catalase/superoxide dismutase, and vitamin E have potential in vitiligo. For melasma, vitamin C, silymarin, and niacinamide were among those showing promise in reducing pigmentation, with vitamin C displaying significant effects in meta-analysis. Different antioxidants improve both vitiligo and melasma, with an increased minimal erythema dose (MED) following UV exposure being significant for vitiligo and tyrosinase inhibition being crucial for melasma. However, the efficacy of individual antioxidants varies, and their exact mechanisms, especially in stimulating melanocyte proliferation and anti-inflammatory pathways, require further investigation to understand better and optimize their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinhart Speeckaert
- Department of Dermatology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vedrana Bulat
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Nanja van Geel
- Department of Dermatology, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Mohamed M, Beshay YMA, Assaf HM. Microneedling with glutathione versus microneedling alone in treatment of facial melasma: Split-face comparative study. J Cosmet Dermatol 2023; 22:3379-3386. [PMID: 37313658 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.15834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melasma is a distressing disfiguring acquired pigmentary disorder especially affecting females and it is of high tendency of recurrence. Up till now, treatment of melasma is a challenging problem. OBJECTIVES We evaluated the effectiveness of microneedling with glutathione versus microneedling alone in treatment of melasma. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this study, 29 adult females with epidermal type of melasma (confirmed with Wood's light examination) were enrolled. The affected area was subjected to microneedling using dermapen followed by application of glutathione solution on the right side only. This session was performed every 2 weeks for 3 months (six sessions for every patient). The response to therapy was measured using modified melasma area and severity index (m MASI) that were calculated on each side of the face (Hemi- m MASI) before treatment sessions. RESULTS There was statistically significant reduction in the mean of Hemi- m MASI score over the sessions on both sides of the face but the right side (microneedling with glutathione) showed more reduction and earlier response to therapy than the left side (microneedling alone). On the left side, mean of Hemi- m MASI score before and after sessions was (4.06 ± 1.91, 2.31 ± 1.450) and on the right side, it was (4.21 ± 2.08, 1.96 ± 1.30), respectively and this was statistically significant. Percentage of improvement on the left side was 46.92 ± 16.30 (%) while on the right side was 55.17 ± 15.50 (%) and this was statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Microneedling is an effective promising tool in treatment of melasma and its combination with glutathione as a whitening agent, increases and accelerates its efficacy. So, combined therapy is more preferred than monotherapy in treatment of facial melasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Mohamed
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | | | - Hanan Metwally Assaf
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
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The Extracellular Matrix Vitalizer RATM Increased Skin Elasticity by Modulating Mitochondrial Function in Aged Animal Skin. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030694. [PMID: 36978943 PMCID: PMC10044720 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction result in skin aging by increasing ECM levels-degrading proteins such as MMPs, and decreasing collagen synthesis. MMPs also destroy the basement membrane, which is involved in skin elasticity. The extracellular matrix vitalizer RATM (RA) contains various antioxidants and sodium hyaluronate, which lead to skin rejuvenation. We evaluated whether RA decreases oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, eventually increasing skin elasticity in aged animals. Oxidative stress was assessed by assaying NADPH oxidase activity, which is involved in ROS generation, and the expression of SOD, which removes ROS. NADPH oxidase activity was increased in aged skin and decreased by RA injection. SOD expression was decreased in aged skin and increased by RA injection. Damage to mitochondrial DNA and mitochondrial fusion markers was increased in aged skin and decreased by RA. The levels of mitochondrial biogenesis markers and fission markers were decreased in aged skin and increased by RA. The levels of NF-κB/AP-1 and MMP1/2/3/9 were increased in aged skin and decreased by RA. The levels of TGF-β, CTGF, and collagen I/III were decreased in aged skin and increased by RA. The expression of laminin and nidogen and basement membrane density were decreased in aged skin and increased by RA. RA increased collagen fiber accumulation and elasticity in aged skin. In conclusion, RA improves skin rejuvenation by decreasing oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in aged skin.
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Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) as a Cosmeceutical to Increase Dermal Collagen for Skin Antiaging Purposes: Emerging Combination Therapies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11091663. [PMID: 36139737 PMCID: PMC9495646 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11091663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascorbic acid (AA) is an essential nutrient and has great potential as a cosmeceutical that protects the health and beauty of the skin. AA is expected to attenuate photoaging and the natural aging of the skin by reducing oxidative stress caused by external and internal factors and by promoting collagen gene expression and maturation. In this review, the biochemical basis of AA associated with collagen metabolism and clinical evidence of AA in increasing dermal collagen and inhibiting skin aging were discussed. In addition, we reviewed emerging strategies that have been developed to overcome the shortcomings of AA as a cosmeceutical and achieve maximum efficacy. Because extracellular matrix proteins, such as collagen, have unique amino acid compositions, their production in cells is influenced by the availability of specific amino acids. For example, glycine residues occupy 1/3 of amino acid residues in collagen protein, and the supply of glycine can be a limiting factor for collagen synthesis. Experiments showed that glycinamide was the most effective among the various amino acids and amidated amino acids in stimulating collagen production in human dermal fibroblasts. Thus, it is possible to synergistically improve collagen synthesis by combining AA analogs and amino acid analogs that act at different stages of the collagen production process. This combination therapy would be useful for skin antiaging that requires enhanced collagen production.
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Pazyar N, Molavi SN, Hosseinpour P, Hadibarhaghtalab M, Parvar SY, Dezfuly MB. Efficacy of intradermal injection of tranexamic acid and ascorbic acid versus tranexamic acid and placebo in the treatment of melasma: A split-face comparative trial. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e537. [PMID: 35284654 PMCID: PMC8905661 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Melasma is a common dermatologic disorder characterized by symmetrical hyperpigmented lesions on the face. Although various therapeutic options are available for melasma, its treatment remains challenging. The present study evaluated the safety and efficacy of intradermal microinjection of tranexamic acid (TA) plus ascorbic acid in treating melasma lesions compared with TA and placebo. Methods From September 2019 to May 2020, 24 patients with symmetrical melasma were enrolled in a prospective, double-blind, split-face, randomized controlled clinical trial. Each patient received 50 mg/ml TA and 50 mg/ml ascorbic acid for one side of the face (A) and 50 mg/ml TA and placebo for the other side (B) every 2 weeks for 12 weeks. The Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score, Physician Global Assessment, and pain were measured at baseline and at 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software version 16, and data were reported as mean ± standard deviation or median and interquartile range. χ 2 and Fisher's exact tests were used to test differences between the groups. Results Both groups experienced a significant decrease in MASI scores compared with the baseline. The MASI score was significantly less in the intervention group than the placebo group at the 8th and 12th weeks. However, burning pain was significantly more prominent in the intervention group. Conclusion Intradermal injection of ascorbic acid combined with TA can be beneficial in treating melasma. Currently, there are numerous treatment modalities for melasma. However, the results still vary, and satisfactory outcomes are yet to be reached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Pazyar
- Dermatology DepartmentAhvaz Jundishapur University of Medical SciencesAhvazIran
| | - Seyedeh Nasrin Molavi
- Dermatology Department, Emam Hospital, School of MedicineAhvaz Jundishapur University of Medical SciencesAhvazIran
| | | | | | - Seyedeh Yasamin Parvar
- Molecular Dermatology Research CenterShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
- Student Research CommitteeShiraz University of Medical SciencesShirazIran
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Charoo NA. Hyperpigmentation: Looking beyond hydroquinone. J Cosmet Dermatol 2022; 21:4133-4145. [PMID: 35020267 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hyperpigmentation is the most common complaint in the age group 40-45 years, seeking consultation for skin disorders. Hydroquinone is a commonly used depigmenting agent in clinical practice for treating hyperpigmentation. Prolonged use of hydroquinone has been associated with cancer risk and exogenous ochronosis. The CARES (The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act) Act of 2020 has instituted significant changes to hydroquinone containing OTC (over the counter) products, and consequently, many hydroquinone-based OTC products had to be withdrawn from the market. Henceforth, products containing hydroquinone would need US Food and Drug Administration approval via new drug application pathways for commercialization. Alternative treatment options to hydroquinone in clinical practice are reviewed in this paper with regard to their safety and efficacy vis a vis hydroquinone. Also, new potential treatment options such as thiamidol, Polypodium leucotomos, and glutathione are discussed. The review shows that these alternative depigmenting agents can be rationally combined to achieve desired treatment goals in the management of hyperpigmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naseem Ahmad Charoo
- Succor Pharma Solutions, Dubai Science Park, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.,Cenric Compounding LLC, Dubai Science Park, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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9
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Khalili M, Amiri R, Iranmanesh B, Zartab H, Aflatoonian M. Safety and efficacy of mesotherapy in the treatment of melasma: A review article. J Cosmet Dermatol 2021; 21:118-129. [PMID: 34846788 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesotherapy is a popular novel therapeutic modality that is defined as intradermal or subcutaneous microinjection of pharmaceutical compounds. Although this novel treatment method is used commonly in aesthetic dermatology, there is little information about details of injections, efficacy, and side effects of mesotherapy in melasma. AIM In this review, we evaluated efficacy and safety of various types of mesotherapy in the treatment of melasma. METHOD We searched Google Scholar, Medline, and PubMed for related articles with keywords "melasma" OR "chloasma" AND "mesotherapy" OR "injection." Inclusion criteria were articles that evaluated intradermal injection of lightening drugs and published dates between January 2000 and September 2021. Exclusion criteria were articles in languages other than English or non-human studies. RESULTS Thirty-three articles evaluated efficacy of mesotherapy in melasma, including 28 articles about tranexamic acid, 4 articles about vitamin C, 2 articles about glutathione, and 2 articles about triamcinolone. CONCLUSION Mesotherapy is a good alternative or adjunctive choice in patients who are refractory to first-line therapy, patients with low compliance with everyday use of topical therapy, patients with contraindication to oral tranexamic acid therapy, or who wish short downtime and fast recovery period. Further studies with large sample sizes are required to determine ideal concentrations of mesotherapy substances and intervals between sessions and to evaluate the efficacy of different substances for mesotherapy as monotherapy compared to combination therapy and other treatment modalities for melasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Khalili
- Department of Dermatology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Rezvan Amiri
- Department of Dermatology, Afzalipour Hospital, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Behzad Iranmanesh
- Department of Dermatology, Afzalipour Hospital, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamed Zartab
- Department of Dermatology, Afzalipour Hospital, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mahin Aflatoonian
- Department of Dermatology, Afzalipour Hospital, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Behrangi E, Shemshadi M, Ghassemi M, Goodarzi A, Dilmaghani S. Comparison of efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid mesotherapy versus oral tranexamic acid in patients with melasma undergoing Q-switched fractional 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser: A blinded RCT and follow-up. J Cosmet Dermatol 2021; 21:279-289. [PMID: 34724323 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melasma is a common hyperpigmentation disorder. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of Nd-Yag fractional 1064 plus microinjection of tranexamic acid versus Nd-Yag fractional 1064 plus oral tranexamic acid in patients with melasma. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a prospective, randomized study with a sample size of 40 patients, 20 in each treatment arm, which was done six times with 2-week intervals. Twenty patients were administered localized microinjections (4 mg/ml) of tranexamic acid and Q-switched 1064 laser every 2 weeks in one arm, while in the other arm, 20 were given oral tranexamic acid 250 mg three times a day and Q-switched 1064 laser every 2 weeks per visit. RESULTS Twenty-one patients with mean SD 40.52+-4.95 y/o were treated with oral tranexamic acid, and 20 patients with 43.3+-5.87 y/o treated with microinjection of tranexamic acid were analyzed. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic and clinical characteristics at the baseline (p > 0.05). The patients MASI score and ∆E decrease over the study period in both treatments significantly (p < 0.001). However, patient's MASI score (p = 0.99) and ∆E (p = 0.53) did not differ significant between the two group over the time. Satisfaction (p = 0.41) and complication during the study period (p = 0.09) were not significantly different between the two group. CONCLUSION The combination treatment method can be a viable option for Middle Eastern patients having melasma disorder, and tranexamic acid appears to be an effective and safe treatment for melasma, irrespective of its route of administration. Tranexamic acid can increase the permeability locally by non-invasive methods such as microneedling which is less painful than microinjection and can also increase patient satisfaction. Although the oral method is more tolerable for the patient, it may have systemic side effects, and its combination with Q-switch laser increases its effect regardless of the type of prescription. Therefore, it is recommended to use of this drug topically (cream or lotion) by non-invasive methods like microneedling to reduce pain and laser treatment in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Behrangi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasool Akram Medical Complex Clinical Research Development Center (RCRDC), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Shemshadi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasool Akram Medical Complex Clinical Research Development Center (RCRDC), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Ghassemi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasool Akram Medical Complex Clinical Research Development Center (RCRDC), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Goodarzi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasool Akram Medical Complex Clinical Research Development Center (RCRDC), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Dilmaghani
- Department of Dermatology, Rasool Akram Medical Complex Clinical Research Development Center (RCRDC), School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
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11
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Artzi O, Horovitz T, Bar-Ilan E, Shehadeh W, Koren A, Zusmanovitch L, Mehrabi JN, Salameh F, Isman Nelkenbaum G, Zur E, Sprecher E, Mashiah J. The pathogenesis of melasma and implications for treatment. J Cosmet Dermatol 2021; 20:3432-3445. [PMID: 34411403 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.14382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melasma is a complex and poorly understood disorder, with high rates of treatment failure and recurrences. OBJECTIVES We aimed to review the current knowledge of the pathogenesis of melasma and apply this knowledge to clinical implications on relevant therapeutic interventions. METHODS A systematic PubMed search was performed using the search term "((melasma[Text Word]) OR facial melanosis[Text Word]) AND (pathogenesis OR causality[MeSH Terms])" for articles published between 1990 and 2020. Included articles were then evaluated by two authors and assessed for relevant pathomechanistic pathways, after which they were divided into groups with minimal overlap. We then reviewed current treatment modalities for melasma and divided them according to the involved pathomechanistic pathway. RESULTS A total of 309 search results were retrieved among which 76 relevant articles were identified and reviewed. Five main pathomechanisms observed in melasma were identified: (1) melanocyte inappropriate activation; (2) aggregation of melanin and melanosomes in dermis and epidermis; (3a) increased mast cell count and (3b) solar elastosis; (4) altered basement membrane; and (5) increased vascularization. Treatment modalities were then divided based on these five pathways and detailed in 6 relevant tables. CONCLUSION The pathophysiology of melasma is multifactorial, resulting in treatment resistance and high recurrence rates. This wide variety of pathomechanisms should ideally be addressed separately in the treatment regimen in order to maximize results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofir Artzi
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tamir Horovitz
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Efrat Bar-Ilan
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Waseem Shehadeh
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Amir Koren
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Lior Zusmanovitch
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Joseph N Mehrabi
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Fares Salameh
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Gila Isman Nelkenbaum
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eyal Zur
- Compounding Solutions, a Pharmaceutical Consultancy Company, Tel-Mond, Israel
| | - Eli Sprecher
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jacob Mashiah
- Division of Dermatology and Venereology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Pediatric Dermatology Unit, Dana Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
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12
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Vitamin C mesotherapy versus topical application for gingival hyperpigmentation: a clinical and histopathological study. Clin Oral Investig 2021; 25:6881-6889. [PMID: 33966113 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-021-03978-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vitamin C/Ascorbic acid inhibits tyrosinase enzyme causing melanin biosynthesis suppression. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of intra-mucosal injection (mesotherapy) with topical gel as non-surgical methods for managing gingival hyperpigmentation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty healthy non-smokers with mild to severe hyperpigmented gingiva were randomly assigned for Mesotherapy (G1); intra-mucosal injection of ascorbic acid (1/week/3 weeks); or Gel (G2), topical ascorbic acid gel (1/day/3 months). Pigmentation index (DOPI), patient satisfaction, as well as histological analysis for Fontana-Masson-stained specimens were performed at baseline and after 6 months. Comparison between groups and changes by time were analyzed using Mann-Whitney and Friedman's tests, respectively. RESULTS The median DOPI significantly decreased after 1 month in G1 (P value < 0.001, r = 0.9) compared with non-significant change in G2. No pain experienced during or after treatment in both groups. G1 patients showed significantly higher satisfaction with treatment than G2. Mean area fraction of melanin forming cells was significantly reduced in both groups after 6 months, but the effect size was higher in G1 (r = 0.886) than in G2 (r = 0.797). CONCLUSIONS Vitamin C mesotherapy showed better and early effect than topical gel, and both techniques were not painful and esthetically satisfying in managing gingival hyperpigmentation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Gingival melanin pigmentation causes esthetic concerns for significant number of patients. Investigating non-surgical depigmentation techniques to decrease postoperative complications and patient discomfort, pain and long healing period associated with surgical methods would be clinically significant.
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13
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Neagu N, Conforti C, Agozzino M, Marangi GF, Morariu SH, Pellacani G, Persichetti P, Piccolo D, Segreto F, Zalaudek I, Dianzani C. Melasma treatment: a systematic review. J DERMATOL TREAT 2021; 33:1816-1837. [PMID: 33849384 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2021.1914313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Melasma is a common chronic refractory disorder of pigmentation affecting people with darker skin types. Overall prevalence varies between 8.8% and 40%, depending on the ethnicity of the population and the geographical area. Therapeutic management of melasma is challenging, with high recurrence rates which significant impacts on the quality of life. No single treatment is universally efficacious. Systemic treatments with tranexamic acid and polypodium leucotmatous had promising results, although the former was related to systemic side effects. Microneedling and peeling were also efficacious, although their superiority to topical hydroquinone, the gold standard in melasma treatment, remains to be established. Similarly, laser and light devices have been beneficial. However, recurrence rates remain high in all treatment groups. Combination therapies, either in double or triple combinations yielded the best results when compared to single terapies. Treatment choice should be made after Wood's lamp examination, as well as dermatoscopic evaluation, in order to select the best treatment option, targeted at each melasma subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoleta Neagu
- State Clinic of Dermatology, Mureș County Hospital, Tîrgu Mureș, Romania
| | - Claudio Conforti
- Dermatology Clinic, Maggiore Hospital of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marina Agozzino
- Dermatology Clinic, Maggiore Hospital of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | | | - Giovanni Pellacani
- Dermatology Clinic, Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiological and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Persichetti
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Segreto
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Iris Zalaudek
- Dermatology Clinic, Maggiore Hospital of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Caterina Dianzani
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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14
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Gao Z, Jiao R, Zhang W, Guo W, Li W, Shi C, Liu F, Zhang W, Zhang Y. Retrospective analysis of off-label medication use at a plastic surgery hospital in China and evidence-based evaluation. Dermatol Ther 2020; 34:e14424. [PMID: 33070423 DOI: 10.1111/dth.14424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
To retrospectively analyze the off-label prescriptions at a plastic surgery hospital in China and conduct a literature review. The prescriptions in outpatient department from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018 were collected and compared with the related drug instructions in indications, dosage, frequency and route of administration to identify the off-label prescriptions. According to related literatures, guidelines, and MICROMEDEX, the rationality of off-label drug uses was evaluated. A total of 39 836 prescriptions were screened and 3395 (8.52%) off-label prescriptions were identified. It involved 23 items off-label medication uses. 20 items were off-label used in indication and three items were in indication and administration route. These off-label prescriptions involved 19 medicines and 12 indications and the dermatology related drug usage accounted for the largest proportion (91.3%). Additionally, five items (21.7%) were Chinese patent medicine related. Of the 23 items, seven (30.4%) have been recommended by guidelines and two (8.7%) by Thomson Grading System of Micromedex. All of them have been proved by literature evidence of level 1 to 4, in which 19 (82.6%) by Level 1 evidence, 21 (91.3%) by Level 1 to 2 evidence and 2 (8.7%) only by level 3 to 4 evidence. This can provide a theoretical basis to clinicians in prescribing. Our next work is to perfect some details about evidence assessment to improve the reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Gao
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Jiao
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Plastic Surgery Hospital (Institute), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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15
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Babbush KM, Babbush RA, Khachemoune A. Treatment of melasma: a review of less commonly used antioxidants. Int J Dermatol 2020; 60:166-173. [PMID: 32815582 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.15133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Melasma, a common cause for seeking dermatologic care, is a chronic condition of skin hyperpigmentation. With a poorly understood pathogenesis, and no universal cure, melasma is a challenge for many dermatologists. For decades, there has been investigation into the role of oxidative stress in melasma. In this literature review, we introduce the role of oxidative stress in melasma and discuss the function of various topical and oral antioxidant therapies for patients suffering from melasma. Numerous studies have shown efficacy of various antioxidant therapies for treatment of hyperpigmentation, and in this review, we focus primarily on those with less widespread use. Vitamin E, niacinamide, polypodium leucotomos, pycnogenol, grape seed extract, amino fruit acids, phytic acid, zinc, silymarin, Korean red ginseng powder, plant extracts, and parsley all have well-demonstrated evidence of antioxidant properties, and these substances have been studied in the context of skin hyperpigmentation. Although there is conflicting evidence of their therapeutic efficacy, the use of these naturally occurring substances is promising for patients and medical providers seeking alternative therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla M Babbush
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Remy A Babbush
- Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Amor Khachemoune
- Department of Dermatology, State University of New York Downstate, Brooklyn, NY, USA.,Department of Dermatology, Veterans Health Administration, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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16
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The efficacy in treatment of facial melasma with thulium 1927-nm fractional laser-assisted topical tranexamic acid delivery: a split-face, double-blind, randomized controlled pilot study. Lasers Med Sci 2020; 35:2015-2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10103-020-03045-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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