Hyperpigmentation
Type: Symptom
Definition
The abnormal, diffuse darkening of the skin and mucous membranes resembling a deep, unnatural tan.
Clinical Details
Because the adrenal glands fail to produce cortisol, the brain aggressively pumps out massive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone in a desperate attempt to stimulate them. This specific hormone heavily cross-reacts with the melanocytes in the skin, driving a massive, uncontrolled overproduction of dark melanin pigment. The darkening is highly pronounced in the creases of the palms, elbows, and inside the mouth.