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Linear Hypopigmentation Following Subcutaneous Steroid Injection
Reema Tominna1, Joseph Aleshaki2, Ava Harrington1
1Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine-Bradenton, Bradenton, USA.
Cureus
|August 5, 2024
Summary
A corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel syndrome caused rare linear hypopigmentation. Patients should be informed of this potential skin depigmentation side effect before treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Corticosteroid injections are a common treatment for musculoskeletal conditions.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a frequent indication for corticosteroid injections.
Observation:
- A 78-year-old woman developed linear hypopigmentation.
- The skin depigmentation appeared four weeks post-injection.
- The hypopigmentation followed a perilymphatic distribution.
Findings:
- Local corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to linear hypopigmentation.
- This adverse skin reaction is a rare but documented complication.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should counsel patients on the risk of skin depigmentation before corticosteroid injections.
- Awareness of this complication is crucial for dermatologists and other clinicians performing these procedures.
