WHAT IS PROGRESSIVE MACULAR HYPOMELANOSIS?Progressive macular hypomelanosis (PMH) is a skin condition in which multiple small, lighter-colored spots appear on the trunk. These usually increase gradually. "Macula" means spot, and "hypomelanosis" means loss of pigment.WHAT DOES PROGRESSIVE MACULAR HYPOMELANOSIS LOOK LIKE?Several small areas develop where the skin is lighter than the surrounding area. Otherwise, there is no visible skin condition. The spots can increase in number and size, and merge into larger patches. They are mainly found on the back and chest, not on the face. The spots do not cause any symptoms, but they can be cosmetically disturbing.
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| macular hypomelanosis |
macular hypomelanosis |
macular hypomelanosis |
HOW DOES PROGRESSIVE MACULAR HYPOMELANOSIS DEVELOP?The exact cause of progressive macular hypomelanosis is unknown. It is thought to be caused by bacteria that live on the skin. These are the same bacteria that live in hair follicles and play a role in the development of acne. This bacterium is called Propionibacterium acnes . It is thought that these bacteria produce a substance that reduces pigment production by pigment cells.WHO GETS PROGRESSIVE MACULAR HYPOMELANOSIS?Progressive macular hypomelanosis occurs primarily in people with darker skin. The color difference is only visible in darker skin; it's not noticeable in fairer skin. It develops after puberty, generally between the ages of 18 and 40. It occurs equally in men and women.HOW IS PROGRESSIVE MACULAR HYPOMELANOSIS TREATED?Treatment is only necessary if the condition is cosmetically disturbing. It can be treated with an acne cream combined with light therapy. The acne cream is a combination preparation containing clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide (Duac acne gel). Light therapy consists of UVB exposure in special light cabinets at the dermatology clinic. Sunbathing yourself is also an option.WHAT ARE THE OUTLOOK?Without treatment, progressive macular hypomelanosis will slowly spread across the trunk, upper arms, and thighs. The face is spared. There are no significant color changes, as with vitiligo, where the pigment is completely lost. With treatment, the normal color can return.
Over time, the spots disappear again. The condition is rarely seen after the age of 45. |
