학술논문

Melasma and reflectance confocal microscopy: from baseline to treatment monitoring.
Document Type
Article
Source
International Journal of Dermatology. Aug2024, Vol. 63 Issue 8, p1007-1012. 6p.
Subject
*CONFOCAL microscopy
*MELANOSIS
*SKIN imaging
*REFLECTANCE
*MEDICAL lasers
Language
ISSN
0011-9059
Abstract
Melasma is a frequent condition worldwide, and it represents one of the most challenging disorders to treat in cosmetic dermatology. One of the critical factors for treatment prognosis is the assessment of the depth and distribution of pigment within the hyperpigmented area. Nowadays, non‐invasive skin imaging techniques, such as reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), have been used to estimate pigment distribution and depth within different skin layers. This article aims to provide a systematic review of RCM applications in melasma, providing terminology and investigating characteristics of melasma at baseline and after medical and laser treatment. Our results support the recognition of two main types of melasma, epidermal and mixed type, thanks to the role of RCM in highlighting the precise pigment depth location in the skin non‐invasively. RCM treatment monitoring enables the objectification of pigment variations after treatment and the identification of prognostic factors for different treatment modalities. After the era of the application of RCM as a technique applied strictly to skin cancers, additional cosmetic applications are emerging, such as the application of melasma treatment monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]