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Facial Hyperpigmentation Following Adalimumab.
Mahjoubi Yasmine Salem1,2, Aouinti Imen1,2, Dahmani Israa1,2
1National Center Chalbi Belkahia of Pharmacovigilance, Department of Collection and Analysis of Adverse Effects, Tunis, Tunisia.
Current Drug Safety
|November 1, 2024
Summary
Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors can cause rare facial hyperpigmentation. This side effect may be a class effect, as seen with adalimumab and certolizumab, suggesting a need for clinician awareness and sun protection.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors are crucial for treating inflammatory diseases.
- Cutaneous adverse reactions are known side effects of TNF-α inhibitor therapy.
Observation:
- Two patients developed isolated facial hyperpigmentation after adalimumab treatment for ankylosing spondylitis.
- Hyperpigmentation appeared as asymptomatic brown macules on the cheeks shortly after medication initiation.
Findings:
- One patient's hyperpigmentation persisted post-adalimumab discontinuation; the other resolved but recurred upon switching to certolizumab.
- The recurrence suggests hyperpigmentation might be a class effect of TNF-α inhibitors.
Implications:
- Hyperpigmentation is an uncommon but potential adverse reaction to TNF-α inhibitors.
- Clinicians should consider this side effect in patients with unexplained facial hyperpigmentation.
- Sun protection is recommended for patients on TNF-α inhibitor therapy.
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