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Exogenous ochronosis in a Chinese patient: use of dermoscopy aids early diagnosis and selection of biopsy site

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Singapore Med J 2014; 55(1): e1-e3; http://dx.doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2014013
Exogenous ochronosis in a Chinese patient: use of dermoscopy aids early diagnosis and selection of biopsy site

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Liu WC, Tey HL, Lee SS, Goh BK
Correspondence: Dr Wen Chun Liu, coniliu@nsc.gov.sg


ABSTRACT
The diagnosis of exogenous ochronosis is often challenging and requires a high index of suspicion. Herein, we report a case of exogenous ochronosis in a Chinese patient. The condition was caused by the use of bleaching agents, including creams containing hydroquinone. We demonstrate the use of dermoscopy as an invaluable tool for the early recognition of the condition, as well as in the selection of an appropriate site for a skin biopsy.

Keywords: 
dermoscopy, hydroquinone, melasma, ochronosis
Singapore Med J 2014; 55(1): e1-e3; http://dx.doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2014013

http://smj.org.sg/sites/default/files/5501/5501cr1.pdf

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