Idiopathic eruptive macular pigmentation: A case from Indonesia

Abstract

Idiopathic eruptive macular pigmentation (IEMP) is an acquired dermal hyperpigmentary disorder characterized by an eruption of asymptomatic, hyperpigmented macules and plaques without preceding inflammation or erythema. We report a 16-year-old boy with asymptomatic hyperpigmented macules and patches on the face, neck, trunk, and upper extremities, which were gradually increased from last 2 years.  Histological examination showed papillomatosis and irregular acanthosis, hyperpigmentation of the basal layer of the epidermis and dermal melanophages on the papilla dermis, supporting the diagnosis of IEMP.  As the nature of the disease is of spontaneous resolution, patient did not receive any treatment, but was given explanation of his disease. The hyperpigmented lesions of IEMP usually undergo spontaneous resolutions within months to years.