Amitriptyline-induced cutaneous hyperpigmentation: case report and review of psychotropic drug-associated mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation

Abstract

Psychotropic drugs associated with cutaneous hyperpigmentation include amitriptyline, chlorpromazine, citalopram, desipramine, imipramine, mirtazapine, phenytoin, sertraline, and thioridazine. The hyperpigmentation may initially appear many years after starting the medication. Pathology typically shows melanophages and melanin in the dermis. Fontana Masson stain confirms the presence of melanin; Perl stain for hemosiderin or iron is negative. Discontinuation of the drug may result in spontaneous improvement. Further studies are needed to better understand the role of Q-switched laser in treating drug-induced hyperpigmentation.