Comparison of acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules in men and women.

BACKGROUND

The clinical and histopathological characteristics of acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules in men are poorly documented due to its rarity.

AIMS

To compare the clinical and histopathological characteristics of acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules in men with the condition in women.

METHODS

We studied 11 men and 62 women, all with a clinical diagnosis of acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules. Biopsies were taken from 5 men and 10 women and their clinical and histopathological features were compared.

RESULTS

The most frequently affected site in men was the forehead [8 (73%) out of 11 patients]. Lesions on the forehead were more common in men than women (P = 0.001). In contrast to women, there was no apparent tendency of the lesions to become more blue with age in men. Concurrent melasma was observed in 14 (23%) out of 62 women, but not in men. Extra-facial acquired dermal melanocytosis was noted in 2 (18%) out of 11 men and in none of the 62 women.

CONCLUSION

Significant differences were noted between men and women in the appearance of concurrent pigmentary lesions and the distribution of lesions. Extra-facial acquired dermal melanocytosis was noted in men.