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Gluteal pigmentation after intramuscular iron injections
M S Doutre1, M Beylot-Barry, C Beylot
1Department of Dermatology, University of Bordeaux II, Pessac, France.
Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Intramuscular iron injections can cause gluteal pigmentation due to iron deposition in the skin. This rare side effect is seldom seen today as these injections are infrequently administered.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Intramuscular injections are a common route for administering medications.
- Iron supplements are used to treat iron deficiency anemia.
- Adverse reactions to medications can occur, necessitating detailed investigation.
Observation:
- A patient presented with gluteal pigmentation following intramuscular iron injections.
- The observed skin discoloration was localized to the injection sites.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination using light microscopy revealed iron deposition in the skin.
- Electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray micro-analysis confirmed the presence of iron.
- The pigment was identified as hemosiderin, a storage form of iron.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but possible adverse effect of intramuscular iron therapy.
- The findings underscore the importance of diagnostic techniques in identifying iatrogenic causes of skin pigmentation.
- Reduced use of intramuscular iron injections has decreased the incidence of this specific side effect.