What causes hyperpigmentation of the skin?

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JKJones (Pharmacist (Verified) ) - 06 / 09 / 2011

Causes of hyperpigmentation, which is a more than normal pigmentation of the body, usually of the skin include:
- changes in hormones, pregnancy, or Addison's disease
- sun damage or sun exposure
- injuries
- a particular skin type
- acne
- medications, such as chemotherapy drugs.

The chemotherapy drugs are that may cause hyperpigmentation are Fluorouracil (5-FU), Cytoxan, Alkeran, Myleran, Bleomycin (Blenoxane), Adriamycin, Daunorubicin, and the topical treatment BCNU.

Generally, hyperpigmentation caused by chemotherapy is short-lived. The darkening of the skin usually slowly fades when the offending chemotherapy medication is discontinued.
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