The Different Types of Multifocal Pigmentation in the Oral Cavity
Multifocal pigmentation, also known as mucosal pigmentation, occurs when there are discolored spots in the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. This type of discoloration can be cause by either exogenous or endogenous pigment substances, which means that it may be cause by outside influences or internal bodily factors and processes. Learn more about the different types of multifocal pigmentation in the oral cavity below, and if you notice any unusual discoloration in your mouth, be sure to consult with your dentist to determine the cause and appropriate course of treatment.
What Is Physiologic Pigmentation?
Physiologic pigmentation is the most common type of multifocal pigmentation in the oral cavity. It is cause by endogenous pigment substances, such as melanin, that are produce by normal cells in the body. Mucosal pigmentation can also be cause by exogenous pigment substances, such as tobacco products or certain medications. The pigmentation may take the form of multifocal macules or diffuse pigmentation. In most cases, physiologic pigmentation is harmless and does not require treatment. However, if you are concern about the appearance of your mucosal pigmentations, please consult your dentist or doctor.
What Are Focal Macular Pigmentations?
Focal macular pigmentations (FMPs) are small, flat, pigment lesions that are often seen in the oral cavity. They can be cause by either exogenous or endogenous pigment substances. The most common cause of FMPs is physiologic pigmentation, which is a result of normal pigment production by the body. However, other causes of FMPs include medications, cosmetics, and sun exposure. FMPs are usually benign and do not require treatment. However, if you are concern about the appearance of your FMPs, you can talk to your dentist or doctor about possible treatments.
What Are Patchy Areas of Hyperpigmentation?
Patchy areas of hyperpigmentation are usually cause by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. The overproduction can be due to a variety of factors, including sun exposure, hormones, certain medications, and injuries. While most cases of patchy hyperpigmentation are harmless, some may be indicative of a more serious condition. If you have any concerns about patches of dark skin on your body, it’s best to see a doctor or dermatologist for an evaluation.
What Is Melanosis (Black Holes)?
Melanosis is a discoloration of the mucosa that takes the form of multifocal black macules. The most common cause of melanosis is long-term exposure to exogenous pigment substances, such as betel nut or tobacco. In some cases, melanosis may also be cause by endogenous pigment substances, such as bile pigment. The pigmentation may be diffuse or multifocal. Melanosis can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the skin or nails.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a medical term use to describe when patches of skin become darker than the surrounding area. The increase production of melanin, a pigment that gives skin its color, leads to hyperpigmentation. There are many causes of hyperpigmentation, including sun damage, inflammation, and certain medications. While hyperpigmentation is usually harmless, it can be cosmetically bothersome for some people. There are a variety of treatments available for hyperpigmentation, including topical creams and laser therapy.
What is mucosal pigmentation?
Mucosal pigmentation is a discoloration of the mucosa that may take the form of multifocal macules or diffuse pigmentation cause by either exogenous or endogenous pigment substances. The most common multifocal or diffuse pigment state in the oral cavity is physiologic pigmentation. The three main types of mucosal pigmentation are: melanin, hemosiderin, and lipofuscin.
Melanin is produce by melanocytes, which are cells found in the basal layer of the epithelium. Melanocytes produce melanin in response to ultraviolet light exposure. This type of pigmentation is seen in areas expose to sunlight, such as the lips, gingiva, and buccal mucosa.
What causes mucosal Melanosis?
Mucosal melanosis is a discoloration of the mucosa that can be cause by either exogenous or endogenous pigment substances. The most common cause of multifocal pigmentation in the oral cavity is physiologic pigmentation. This type of pigmentation is usually benign and does not require treatment. However, if you are concern about the appearance of your mucosal melanosis, you should consult your dentist or doctor. In rare cases, mucosal melanosis can be cause by a more serious condition such as malignant melanoma. If you have any concerns about your pigmentation, it is important to see a doctor or dentist for an evaluation.
