Demodex parasite density in patients with melasma: a case-control study
Küçük Resim Yok
Tarih
2026
Dergi Başlığı
Dergi ISSN
Cilt Başlığı
Yayıncı
Taylor & Francis Ltd
Erişim Hakkı
info:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccess
Özet
Background: Although multiple factors contribute to the development of melasma, there are reports suggesting a potential role of Demodex parasites in hyperpigmentation. This study aimed to compare the density and prevalence of Demodex infestation between patients with melasma and healthy controls. Methods: This case-control study included 35 melasma patients and 35 healthy volunteers. Standard superficial skin biopsies using cyanoacrylate adhesive were taken from the malar regions. Samples were examined via light microscopy, with a density of >= 5 Demodex/cm(2) defined as positive. Results: No statistically significant difference was found between the melasma and control groups in terms of Demodex mite density or positivity rates. Correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between mMASI scores and Demodex mite density. As a secondary finding, the mean mMASI score was significantly higher in male participants compared to female participants. Conclusion: In this case-control study, we found no statistically significant association between Demodex parasite density and melasma in our study population. While our findings do not support an association in this sample, future large-scale and multicenter studies could further explore the potential role of Demodex in skin disorders that have been suggested by other reports. The single-center design and moderate sample size should be considered when interpreting these results.
Açıklama
Anahtar Kelimeler
Melasma, demodex mite, pigmented demodicosis, hyperpigmentation, dermoscopy
Kaynak
Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology
WoS Q Değeri
Q3
Scopus Q Değeri
Q3
