Periorbital Melanosis: A Potential Marker for Metabolic Syndrome?

Abstract

Background: Periorbital melanosis (POM) is bilateral hyperpigmentation of the periorbital area that appears darker than the surrounding skin. Scientific information on the pathophysiology and clinical features of POM remains extremely limited. POM is a common dermatologic condition with unclear pathogenesis, and its association with metabolic syndrome is not well understood. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate serum adiponectin levels in patients with POM and assess their association with metabolic syndrome. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study included 80 participants, comprising 40 patients with POM and 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. The study was conducted at the Dermatology Outpatient Department of Government Medical College, Patiala, Punjab, India. Participants were recruited from January 2022 to December 2022. Serum adiponectin, fasting blood sugar, serum lipid profile, and fasting insulin levels were measured in all participants. The sample size of 40 participants per group was determined using a power calculation to detect a mean difference in serum adiponectin levels of 2 µg/mL, based on prior literature, with an SD of 3 µg/mL, 80% power, and an alpha level of 0.05. This calculation yielded approximately 35 participants per group, which was rounded up to 40 for feasibility. Statistical analysis was performed. Results: The mean body mass index (BMI) was significantly higher in cases (23.99 kg/m2) than in controls (22.53 kg/m2; P = 0.010). Cases also had significantly higher cholesterol (P = 0.031) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (P < 0.001) than controls. The mean serum adiponectin level was lower in cases (9.22 µg/mL) than in controls (11.22 µg/mL), but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.124). Conclusions: This study suggests an association between POM and metabolic syndrome, characterized by lower serum adiponectin levels and altered lipid profiles in patients with POM. These findings underscore the need for comprehensive management of POM, which may enhance patient care and improve health outcomes.