Exploring the Impact of Subclinical Hypothyroidism on Hyperpigmentation: A Rare Presentation in a 42-Year-Old Woman

TL;DR

A 42-year-old woman's skin darkening improved after treating her hidden thyroid issue, showing thyroid problems can cause unusual pigmentation.

Contribution

Demonstrates a rare case linking subclinical hypothyroidism to generalized hyperpigmentation and its resolution with thyroid treatment.

Findings

Generalized acute hyperpigmentation was associated with subclinical hypothyroidism in a 42-year-old woman.

Levothyroxine treatment led to significant lightening in hyperpigmented skin regions.

The case highlights thyroid dysfunction as a potential cause of atypical pigmentation disorders.

Abstract

Hyperpigmentation of the skin can occur due to internal and external causes. This case highlights an unusual presentation of generalized acute hyperpigmentation associated with subclinical hypothyroidism in a 42-year-old Indian American woman. After unsuccessful trials of various topical agents, the patient exhibited significant improvement in hyperpigmentation after levothyroxine treatment. Improvements included lightening in the bilateral antecubital fossa, axillae, and neck regions. This case underscores the importance of considering thyroid dysfunction as a potential factor that may contribute to atypical pigmentation disorders.

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