chloasma

chloasma /chlo·as·ma/ (klo-az´mah) melasma.

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chlo·as·ma (kl-zm)

n. pl. chlo·as·ma·ta (-m-t)

A patchy brown or dark brown skin discoloration that usually occurs on a woman's face and may result from hormonal changes, as in pregnancy. Also called mask of pregnancy, melasma.

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Chloasma

A skin discoloration common during pregnancy, also known as the "mask of pregnancy" or melasma, in which blotches of pale brown skin appear on the face. It is usually caused by hormonal changes. The blotches may appear in the forehead, cheeks, and nose, and may merge into one dark mask. It usually fades gradually after pregnancy, but it may become permanent or recur with subsequent pregnancies. Some women may also find that the line running from the top to the bottom of their abdomen darkens. This is called the linea nigra.

Mentioned in: Pregnancy

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chloasma

[klō·az′mə]

Etymology: Gk, chloazein, to be green

tan or brown pigmentation, particularly of the forehead, cheeks, and nose, commonly associated with pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy. The hyperpigmentation may be permanent or may disappear, only to recur with subsequent pregnancies or use of oral contraceptives, and is frequently treated with bleaching agents such as hydroquinone. Also called gravidarum chloasma, mask of pregnancy, melasma.

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chloasma

see melasma.

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chloasma

Melasma, cloasma hepaticum Dermatology A term for melasma-like facial hyperpigmentation, which may be a skin manifestation of pregnancy or chronic liver disease