Hyperpigmentation
Darkening of the skin due to an increase in melanin production or deposition, appearing as patches or macules darker than the surrounding skin.
Full Definition
Hyperpigmentation occurs when excess melanin is produced by melanocytes or when pigment is deposited in the dermis following inflammation or drug exposure. Common subtypes include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, solar lentigines, and drug-induced dyschromia. In dermatological manuscripts and patient-information materials, the term must be distinguished from hypopigmentation (reduced pigment) and depigmentation (complete loss). Editors frequently encounter hyphenation queries: current dermatological style favours 'hyperpigmentation' (no hyphen). The term is clinically significant across Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI and must be contextualised accordingly.
Usage
Usage note: Spell without a hyphen. Distinguish from 'melasma', which is a specific hormonally influenced subtype of facial hyperpigmentation.
In Context
- "Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was the most common sequela reported after laser treatment in patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI." — Clinical trial results section
- "Ensure 'hyperpigmentation' is not hyphenated anywhere in the manuscript; house style follows AAD preferred spellings." — Style guide annotation