Idiopathic eruptive macular pigmentation: a case series with clinicodermoscopic and histopathological correlation.

Abstract

Idiopathic eruptive macular pigmentation (IEMP) is a rare benign pigmentary disorder that predominantly affects children and adolescents. We report a series of four patients presenting with multiple asymptomatic hyperpigmented macules and patches on the trunk and proximal extremities, in the absence of preceding inflammation or drug exposure. Dermoscopic examination revealed homogeneous brown pigmentation with a faint pigment network, while histopathology consistently showed basal layer hyperpigmentation with dermal melanophages and papillomatosis, without interface dermatitis. Recognition of these clinicodermoscopic and histopathological features is important for distinguishing IEMP from other acquired hyperpigmentary disorders and for avoiding unnecessary investigations or treatment.