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Hyperpigmented scar due to minocycline therapy
James W Patterson1, Barbara Wilson, Mark R Wick
1University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, USA. jwp9e@virginia.edu
Cutis
|December 21, 2004
Summary
Minocycline therapy can cause hyperpigmented scars, even after nevus excision. Histopathology revealed iron and pigment deposition, linked to prior minocycline use.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Scarring after nevus excision can present diagnostic challenges.
- Hyperpigmentation is a known but sometimes overlooked side effect of certain medications.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old woman developed a heavily pigmented scar post-excision of a benign compound nevus.
- Histopathology revealed hemosiderin-like pigment and iron deposition in the scar tissue.
Findings:
- Positive Perls stain (iron) and Fontana-Masson stain confirmed pigment deposition.
- Patient history revealed prior minocycline therapy, which was initially unreported.
Implications:
- Minocycline ingestion is a potential cause of hyperpigmented scars.
- Clinicians should consider medication history in diagnosing pigmented lesions and scars.