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The Hydroxychloroquine - Induced Skin Hyperpigmentation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patient - a Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an anti-malarial, antirheumatic disease-modifying medication. Besides the familiar adverse effects, HCQ has been associated with cutaneous manifestations like hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, and pruritus. Objective: This case report aims to describe the clinical features and outcome of hydroxychloroquine-induced skin hyperpigmentation in a patient with SLE. Case presentation: In this case report, we present a 32-year-old man with a history of Systemic lupus erythematosus who was treated with hydroxychloroquine. One year after treatment, the patient complained of diffused discoloration and melanonychia. Furthermore, punch biopsy from the involved sites showed pigment incontinence. To our knowledge, this is the only case reported with biopsy and photographic evidence from our geographical area. Conclusion: Hydroxychloroquine-induced pigmentation is not a rare adverse effect of HCQ. Biopsy revealed pigment incontinence. Additionally, our patient had no history of ecchymoses or anticoagulant therapy.

Source: Medical Archives

DOI: 10.5455/medarh.2025.79.67-70

Authors: Anhar Zahrani, Shaimaa Salaam, Sahar Alsifri, Amjad Alghamdi, Mohammed Zamil

Institutions: King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Fahad Hospital Jeddah

Language: English

Topic: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Research

Subfield: Rheumatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W4409395985