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Imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation.

Lindsay M Bicknell¹, Courtney L McFaddin², Martin Fernandez³

¹Department of Internal Medicine and the Department of Dermatology, Baylor Scott & White Health, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Temple, USA.

|November 10, 2017

Summary

Imipramine, a common antidepressant, can rarely cause slate gray skin discoloration, particularly on sun-exposed areas. This case highlights imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation, emphasizing the need for awareness of drug-induced skin changes.

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Area of Science:

Dermatology
Pharmacology

Background:

Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant widely prescribed for mood disorders.
Drug-induced hyperpigmentation is a rare but recognized adverse effect of certain medications.

Observation:

A 63-year-old woman developed a bluish-gray facial and neck discoloration after over 20 years of imipramine use.
The discoloration was primarily on sun-exposed areas.

Findings:

Histopathology and clinical history confirmed the diagnosis of imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation.
The study reviews other medications associated with hyperpigmentation and their staining characteristics.

Implications:

Clinicians should be aware of the potential for imipramine to cause skin hyperpigmentation.
Early recognition and diagnosis of drug-induced hyperpigmentation are crucial for patient management.