Aging of the skin in pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

Background: It was reported that pseudoexfoliative material deteriorates iris, brain, heart and lung functions. This material is also found in the skin.

Aims: The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible effects of pseudoexfoliation material on the aging of the facial skin.

Study design: Cross-sectional study.

Methods: Forty pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PES) cases and 40 age- and gender-matched controls were evaluated. Job, cigarette use and the presence of any systemic diseases as well as the duration of sun exposure for all the cases were recorded. All of the cases underwent facial skin examination with Wrinkle Assessment Scale as per Lemperle G et al. and Pinch Test.

Results: Wrinkle Assessment Scale scores of the groups also were compared for all 8 facial locations. There were statistically significant differences found between Wrinkle Assessment Scale scores in PES and Control Group for all 8 locations. Mean Wrinkle Assessment Scale scores of women were 4.12 ± 0.74 in Control Group and 4.75 ± 0.37 in PES group (p = 0.0001). For men, mean Wrinkle Assessment Scale scores were 3.77 ± 0.72 in Control group and 4.54 ± 0.36 in PES group (p = 0.002).

Conclusion: These results implies that there is quicker progression in aging of facial skin in PES than normals.