10 Kidney Failure Symptoms
Symptom #10: Skin Hyperpigmentation
Skin hyperpigmentation refers to the state when there is darkening of the skin due to increased melanin. It can be caused by conditions where there is inflammation, sun damage, and skin injuries. It can also be scarring from acne. Hyperpigmentation is more likely to occur among individuals who have darker skin tones, especially when there is excess sun exposure. Melanin is produced by melanocytes that are located in the lower layer of the epidermis. Some causes of hyperpigmentation include Cushing’s disease, Addison’s disease, acanthosis nigricans, and melasma.
In kidney failure, skin hyperpigmentation occurs due to the retention of urochromes in the skin, resulting in an almost metallic color skin that may also appear grayish. Patients with kidney failure may also have uremic frost, a white and powdery substance that appears on the skin surface after sweat dries.
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