Korean J Dermatol.
1994 Feb;32(1):1-7.
A Clinical and Pathologic Study on Becker' s Melanosis
Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Becker's mealanosis is not an uncommon entity, and many cases are probably not reported because the diagnosis is usually made clinically and the condition is benign with cosmetic significance only. the etiology remains obscure.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study is to establish the clinicopathologic characteristics of Becker's melanosis in Korean.
METHODS
Thirty-six patients with Becker's melanosis were retrospectively studied.
RESULTS
The clinical and histopathologic findings observed in our cases were similar to previous reports except for the following. Nine patients(25%) had abnormal findings in their hair follicles : dilatation of the infundibular portion filled with abnormal keratin, Pityrosporum orbiculare and bacteria(19.4%); formation of intrafollicular cyst(5.6%). Three patients(8.3%) had granulomatous infiltration. Twenty-two patients(61.1%) had increased smooth muscle bundles.
CONCLUSION
The findings associated with dermal hair follicles may be related to the pathogenesis of Becker's melanosis.
