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Ochronosis | Open Access Journals
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Journal of Tissue Science and Engineering

ISSN: 2157-7552

Open Access

Ochronosis

Ochronosis is a syndrome caused by the accumulation of homogentisic acid in the connective tissues. The condition was named after the yellowish (ocher) discoloration of the tissue seen on microscopic examination. Macroscopically, however, the affected tissue appears bluish gray due to a phenomenon of light scattering known as the Tyndall effect. The condition is most often associated with alkaptonuria, but can occur from the exogenous administration of phenol complexes such as hydroquinone. It was first described by Rudolf Virchow in 1865. Exogenous ochronosis can be caused by long-term use of certain "lightening" products, even if hydroquinone is as low as 2%. Skin lightening products are still common in many parts of the world. This may be due to aesthetic or social reasons, in areas where a lighter complexion is considered a sign of wealth or beauty. In addition, skin lightening creams containing compounds such as hydroquinone are commonly used to relieve hyperpigmentation disorders such as melasma. Hydroquinone is the most commonly used compound in skin whitening products . Due to concerns about its side effects, it was almost banned by the FDA in 2006 because of medical concerns of carcinogenicity and reports of disfigurement of ochronosis existed. In the European Union, hydroquinone is banned in cosmetic creams since 2000.

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Relevant Topics in Genetics & Molecular Biology

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Citations: 807

Journal of Tissue Science and Engineering received 807 citations as per Google Scholar report

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