Oral melanotic hyperpigmentation following external beam radiotherapy for mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland

Introduction: Epithelial hyperpigmentation from is a commonly encountered side effect from radiation therapy applications, most frequently described in skin. We here report a case of radiotherapy-associated oral hyperpigmentation. Case Report: A 46-year-old female with parotid mucoepidermoid carcinoma underwent resection with involved margins, followed by adjuvant radiotherapy. During her course of treatment, non-tender, non-confluent, well-demarcated palatal and lingual hyperpigmented macules were noted, monitored without intervention. Serial images demonstrate gradual resolution during several months post-treatment. Conclusion: Oral hyperpigmentation is likely an underreported phenomenon, and appears to be largely cosmetic, with stigmata resolving gradually over time.