Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 27, 2026

Diffuse Optical Spectroscopy for the Quantitative Assessment of Acute Ionizing Radiation Induced Skin Toxicity Using a Mouse Model
Published on: May 27, 2016
A case of latanoprost-induced diffuse facial skin hyperpigmentation
Ho Young Kim1, Soo Kyung Lee1, Jae Ho Lee1
1Department of Dermatology, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, Korea.
Introduction:
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2α analogue, which has been used as a first-line drug for open-angle glaucoma. Common side effects of latanoprost include hyperpigmentation. While it usually occurs on irides or periocular skin, diffuse facial hyperpigmentation is rarely reported.
Case Presentation:
A 71-year-old woman was presented with diffuse gray-brown colored maculopatches on her face. The symptom appeared 1 week after she started to use latanoprost eye drops for glaucoma. Biopsy specimen revealed vacuolar degeneration of dermo-epidermal junction and pigment incontinence in dermis.
Objective:
The aim of this paper is to introduce a rare adverse effect of latanoprost and effective way of treatment.
Methods:
We stopped her from using latanoprost. She was also treated with 532-nm potassium titanyl phosphate laser and low-fluence 1064-nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, while using topical agents.
Result:
After 10 weeks, we observed hyperpigmentation of her face was effectively and safely treated. The patient was satisfied with the result.
Conclusion:
Diffuse facial pigmentation could be one of the latanoprost-induced adverse effects and the laser treatments with topical agents we used can make it improve faster.
Related Concept Videos
Diffusion
Diffusion
Facial Feedback Hypothesis
Muscles for Facial Expressions
Facilitated Diffusion
In this process, substrates such as organic compounds and ions interact with a transporter on one side, triggering conformational changes in proteins that enable...
Behavior of Gas Molecules: Molecular Diffusion, Mean Free Path, and Effusion

