Benign dermoscopic parallel ridge pattern in plantar hyperpigmentation due to capecitabine

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology

Background:

• Hyperpigmented plantar macules can be a diagnostic challenge.
• Capecitabine chemotherapy is associated with various side effects, including hand-foot syndrome.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of capecitabine-induced hyperpigmentation presenting as plantar macules.
• To discuss the dermoscopic findings and differential diagnosis of such lesions.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a 37-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer treated with capecitabine.
• Clinical examination and dermoscopic evaluation of plantar macules.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with a two-month history of hyperpigmented plantar macules.
• Dermoscopy showed a parallel ridge pattern with pigmentation in furrows, without eccrine gland obliteration.
• The findings were consistent with drug-induced hyperpigmentation from capecitabine.

Conclusions:

• Capecitabine can induce hyperpigmentation on the soles, mimicking other plantar lesions.
• Dermoscopic features, like the parallel ridge pattern, aid in distinguishing drug-induced changes from conditions such as acral melanoma.