Multiple labial melanotic macules occurring after topical application of calcineurin inhibitors

Dermatol Online J. 2014 Aug 17;20(8):13030/qt45k792vj.

Abstract

Topical calcineurin inhibitors are widely used to treat inflammatory dermatoses for their steroid-sparing advantage. Herein, we report a patient with chronic lip dermatitis who developed multiple labial melanotic macules after application of tacrolimus 0.1% ointment and pimecrolimus 1% cream. Prior and current reports raise concerns for potential development of pigmented lesions associated with topical calcineurin inhibitor use. These reports highlight the need for careful risk-benefit assessment when prescribing topical calcineurin inhibitors for inflammatory dermatoses, especially when used on sun-exposed sites.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Adult
  • Biopsy
  • Calcineurin Inhibitors / administration & dosage
  • Calcineurin Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / drug therapy*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lentigo / chemically induced*
  • Lentigo / pathology
  • Lip Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Lip Diseases / pathology
  • Peptidylprolyl Isomerase / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Tacrolimus / administration & dosage
  • Tacrolimus / adverse effects
  • Tacrolimus / analogs & derivatives*

Substances

  • Calcineurin Inhibitors
  • pimecrolimus
  • Peptidylprolyl Isomerase
  • Tacrolimus