Hyperpigmentation in palms associated with lung adenocarcinoma resolving after chemotherapy

Background and Aim Hyperpigmentation is a kind of paraneoplastic syndrome associated with lung cancer. Diffuse hyperpigmentation was reported and generally resulted from overproduction of melanocyte-stimulating hormone or adrenocorticotropic hormone. However, localized hyperpigmentation is rare for lung cancer. Methods Here, we report a 56-year-old lung adenocarcinoma patient who developed hyperpigmentation in two palms about 3 months preceding the diagnosis and resolved gradually with the shrink of the primary tumours in lung after chemotherapy. Result Localized hyperpigmentation suggests that another mechanism might be involved. Conclusion The case reminds us that any skin disorders without obvious causes in heavy smokers should be alerted as a sign of lung cancer and sometimes could be used as a marker of response to the treatment.