Description

A patient with ochronosis (alkaptonuria) may present with a discoloration of the external ear.


Finding: bluish to brown coloration of pinna, sparing the ear lobe

 

Other sites that may be discolored:

(1) sclerae

(2) nasal cartilage

(3) facial skin

 

Differential diagnosis:

(1) topical cream containing hydroquinone or other chemical

(2) medication such as minocycline, amiodarone, levodopa or hydroxychloroquine


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