National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Exogenous ochronosis


Other Names:
Ochronosis, acquired
This disease is grouped under:
Exogenous ochronosis (EO) refers to the bluish-black discoloration of areas of the skin, especially the face, ear cartilage, the ocular (eye) tissue, and other body locations.  It occurs as the result of exposure to malarial drugs, skin lightening creams and over-exposure the the sun.[1]  Other than the skin discoloration, there are no other health effects. EO does not typically appear until adulthood and may be difficult to diagnose.  There is no specific treatment for this condition. Treatment options exist, and include prescription skin creams, vitamins, laser treatments and other skin treatments.  Exogenous ochronosis is different from hereditary ochronosis, which is an inherited condition that occurs with alkaptonuria.[2][1]
Last updated: 4/29/2019

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  1. Bhattar PA, Zawar VP, Godse KV, Patil SP, Nakarni NJ, Gautam MM. Exogenous Ochronosis. Indian J Derm. Nov-Dec 2015; 60(6):537-43. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26677264.
  2. Vashi N. Kundu R. Acquired hyperpigmentation disorders. UpToDate. Sept 28, 2017; https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acquired-hyperpigmentation-disorders.