DRUGS CAUSING OROFACIAL PIGMENTATION: AN OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract

The term "Oro-facial pigmentation" refers to a wide range of lesions or conditions featuring a change of color of Oro-facial tissues. Pigmentation of the Orofacial tissues is seen in certain races or ethnic groups such as Indians, Africans and Europeans. Broadly classifying, Oro-facial pigmentation is divided into endogenous pigmentation and exogenous pigmentation. Endogenous pigmentation is due to pigments produced within the body. Exogenous pigmentation occurs when foreign bodies get impregnated into the oral mucosa and appear as localized area of altered pigmentation. Drug constitutes an important endogenous cause of Oro-facial pigmentation. Hereby, we are presenting an overview of various drugs in the etio-pathogenesis of Oro-facial pigmentation.