Chromhidrosis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Chromhidrosis
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Colored sweat, typically yellow, green, blue, or black
Complications	N/A
Onset	Puberty
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Accumulation of lipofuscin in sweat glands
Risks	None known
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Pseudochromhidrosis, hematidrosis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Topical capsaicin, Botulinum toxin injections
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

A rare condition characterized by colored sweat

Chromhidrosis is a rare skin disorder characterized by the secretion of colored sweat. This condition is most commonly associated with the apocrine glands, which are found primarily in the axillae (armpits), areola of the breast, and the anogenital region. Chromhidrosis can also occur in the eccrine glands, although this is less common.

Pathophysiology

Chromhidrosis is primarily caused by the accumulation of lipofuscin in the apocrine glands. Lipofuscin is a yellow-brown pigment that is a byproduct of lipid peroxidation and is normally found in small amounts in the body. In chromhidrosis, the lipofuscin is present in higher concentrations and in a more oxidized state, which gives the sweat its distinctive color. The colors of sweat in chromhidrosis can vary, with yellow, green, blue, and even black being reported. The exact color depends on the degree of oxidation of the lipofuscin pigment.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with chromhidrosis typically present with complaints of colored sweat, which can be distressing and socially embarrassing. The condition is often noticed when the patient sweats, as the colored sweat can stain clothing and skin.

Diagram of human skin showing sweat glands

The condition is usually benign, but it can cause significant psychological distress due to its visible nature. The colored sweat is often more noticeable after physical exertion or emotional stress, which can increase sweating.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of chromhidrosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of colored sweat. A thorough medical history and physical examination are essential. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of lipofuscin in the apocrine glands.

Treatment

There is no definitive cure for chromhidrosis, but several treatment options can help manage the symptoms. Topical capsaicin cream has been used to reduce the production of colored sweat by depleting the neurotransmitter substance P in the skin. Botulinum toxin injections can also be effective by reducing sweat production. In some cases, laser therapy or surgical removal of the affected sweat glands may be considered, although these are more invasive options.

Prognosis

Chromhidrosis is a chronic condition, but it is not life-threatening. The main impact is on the patient's quality of life due to the cosmetic and social implications of the condition. With appropriate management, many patients can achieve satisfactory control of their symptoms.

See also

• Hyperhidrosis
• Apocrine gland
• Eccrine gland
• Lipofuscin