Oral Hyperpigmentation

This 21 years student noticed hyperpigmentaiton of her buccal mucosae for one weeks.
She has gingival hyperpigmentation for years and has a family history of the latter.
Her health is good, and her only medication are albuterol and cromolyn sodium for asma.
No history of cancer in any first degree relation.


The examination show hyperpigmented buccal maculas measuring up to > 1 cm in diameter.
Gingival hyperpigmentation is present as well.




In the differential diagnosis I would consider pigmented fixed drug eruption, amalgam tattoo, melanoacanthoma. Biopsy may be offered. Melanoma is unlikely.

Presented by
Mordechai Pepe Grosbartt
Concepción, Chile