What is it idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation?
Idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation is rare benign pigmentary disorder characterized by asymptomatic hyperpigmented macules with a predilection for the upper regions of the body [1]. It is classified as a variant of acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation
See images of acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation.
Who gets idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation?
Idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation can occur in any age group and affects both genders. Most of the reported cases involve children and adolescents [2].
What Causes Idiopathic Eruptive Macular Hyperpigmentation?
The cause of idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation is unknown. Hypermelanosis occurs sporadically in the absence of previous disease, inflammation, sun exposure or medications [3]. It has not been reported to be family [4].
It has been hypothesized that hormones play a role in cases that have worsened during pregnancy.
What are the clinical features of idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation?
Idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation is characterized by multiple discreet Small asymptomatic brownish-black macules or larger patches.
- the pigmentation It is most often located on the face, neck, trunk and proximal extremities Mucous membrane surfaces, hair, nail, palms and soles are not affected.
- The size of the lesions can vary from person to person, but most are less than 10 mm in diameter. [1,2].
- There is no precedent erythema.
- The pigmentation regresses spontaneously in a few months or years.
Idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation is not influenced by exposure to ultraviolet light (UV) radiation [2].
How is idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation diagnosed?
The diagnosis of idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation is established by histopathological evaluation of a skin biopsy.
- There is an increase in pigmentation of the basal cell layer with papillomatosis otherwise normal epidermis.
- Dermal melanophages, pigmentary and scanty incontinence mast cells can be observed [2].
Which is the differential diagnosis for idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation?
Idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation can be clinically misdiagnosed as one of the following conditions.
- Other forms of acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation: pigmentary lichen planus, which normally fluctuates and can be aggravated by exposure to UV radiation; and erythema dyschromicum perstans, which may have preceding erythema and generally persists long-term.
Fixed drug eruption; this is repeated in association with a particular drug.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation this follows an injury or inflammatory Skin illness.
- Maculopapular cutaneous mastocytosis; This itches and the lesions may swell when rubbed (or may blister in young children). Histology reveals excessive amounts of mast cells.
Café au lait macules are light brown in color and do not regress spontaneously.
- Acanthosis nigricans has associated clinical features of insulin resistance or malignancy [1–3].
What is the treatment for idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation?
Treatment of idiopathic eruptive macular hyperpigmentation is not necessary because the lesions are asymptomatic and resolve spontaneously within several months or years. Once cleared, there are no residual changes or scars. [1]. Reappearance It has not been reported.