Table of Contents
What causes dark colored knuckles?
The darker pigmentation on your knuckles may be inherited. Or it may be a reaction to a drug you’re taking, such as an oral contraceptive, a strong corticosteroid, or niacin. Darker skin on your knuckles can also be a sign of an underlying condition that needs to be treated, such as diabetes.
Why does anemia cause hyperpigmentation?
Evidence has suggested that hyper pigmentation can occur as a result of iron deficiency anemia and patients with melasma have been reported to have a lower serum levels of hemoglobin (Hb), iron, ferritin and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) [14, 16, 17].
Why does B12 deficiency cause hyperpigmentation?
The hyperpigmentation related to vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in darker-skinned patients. Few other cases of skin hyperpigmentation due to vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in the literature. The mechanism of hyperpigmentation is due to increased melanin synthesis rather than a defect in melanin.
Why is there pigmentation in megaloblastic anemia?
A diagnosis of megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency was made. In the areas of pigmentation, there were abnormally large nuclei in the keratinocytes. All of these findings were reversible upon the administration of vitamin B12.
What is knuckle pigmentation?
Knuckle pigmentation is an easily visible and early sign of vitamin B12 deficiency. It may occur even before the development of hematological and neurological complications. Therefore, clinicians especially dermatologists must be aware of this sign so that such cases may be diagnosed and treated early.
Is dark knuckles normal?
Dark patches of skin on the knuckles are common among people with darker skin tones. However, anyone can develop dark knuckles. This symptom is usually harmless, but it can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition.
Can iron deficiency cause darker skin?
If it is a very pale pink or yellow color, this may indicate that you have iron deficiency. In people with darker skin tones, this may be the only area where it is noticeable. Skin that is paler than usual in areas such as the face, lower inner eyelids, or nails may be a sign of moderate or severe iron deficiency.
Why does melasma happen?
What causes melasma? Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun stimulates the melanocytes. A change in hormones: Pregnant women often get melasma. Skin care products: If a product irritates your skin, melasma can worsen.
Does B12 deficiency cause dark skin?
Reversible skin hyperpigmentation is one of the pigmentary changes associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. It is observed in patients with megaloblastic, non-pernicious anaemia, mainly in those with dark-coloured skin (1–3).
Which vitamin is responsible pigmentation?
Vitamin D is an essential hormone synthesized in the skin and is responsible for skin pigmentation. Low levels of vitamin D have been observed in vitiligo patients and in patients with other autoimmune diseases. Therefore, the relationship between vitamin D and vitiligo needs to be investigated more thoroughly.
Does anemia cause skin problems?
Iron deficiency anemia can cause the skin to become itchy or susceptible to bruising. Scratched and bruised skin can cause a rash-like appearance on the skin.