Minocycline-induced pigmentation at sites of cutaneous inflammation
N. A. Fenske, J. L. Millns and K. E. Greer
In four cases of minocycline hydrochloride-induced cutaneous pigmentation,
blue-gray discoloration in sites of cutaneous inflammation was seen in all
cases. An additional finding of generalized, brown hyperpigmentation with
accentuation in sun-exposed areas was noted in one. Although all of the
patients had used relatively high doses of medication, the variable
duration of therapy before pigmentary changes and dearth of similar reports
suggest an idiosyncratic response to this commonly used medication.
Histochemical stains and electron microscopic studies suggest hemosiderin
or a pigment with similar staining properties; a minocycline degradation
product, however, cannot be discounted.
