Association of Melasma with thyroid disorders: A case-control study

Background and aim: Melasma is an acquired, symmetric hyperpigmentation, specially in sun-exposed skin. Disorders of thyroid gland result from processes that stimulate the overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormones. This study was performed to assess the association of melasma with thyroid disorders.Materials and Methods: This case-control study was performed on 45 non-pregnant women between 20-50 years with and without melasma. Thyroid hormones and autoantibodies including T3, T4, TSH, anti TPO and anti TG were measured by ELISA in both groups.Results: In patients with melasma, the frequency of thyroid disorders was 37.8% versus 11.1% in the control group (P=0.013,OR=4.8,95% CI=1.60-14.7). The mean level of TSH, anti TPO and anti TG in control patients was lower than in patients but the difference was not significant.Conclusion: Melasma is associated with thyroid disorders specially hypothyroidism and autoimmune disorders.