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.