Smoker's melanosis. A case report.
Smoker's melanosis is a benign pigmentation of the oral mucosa, predominantly observed on the attached anterior mandibular gingiva and interdental papillae. These macular lesions are independent of genetic factors, therapeutic medication usage, and various systemic disorders. As a group they are often seen after the third decade of life. Due to the onset in adulthood and the progressive darkening, malignant melanoma must be ruled out. A review of the literature and a case report of this interesting and unique entity is presented.
AFSC Regional Hospital Eglin, Eglin AFB FL.
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FH
Brown
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GD
Houston
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005882:Gingival Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008437:Maxilla; D008548:Melanosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects*