Published online Sep 26, 2018. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v6.i10.322
Peer-review started: April 21, 2018
First decision: June 15, 2018
Revised: June 28, 2018
Accepted: July 23, 2018
Article in press: July 24, 2018
Published online: September 26, 2018
Labial and oral melanotic macules are commonly encountered in a broad range of conditions ranging from physiologic pigmentation to a sign of an underlying life-threatening disease. Although Laugier-Hunziker syndrome (LHS) shares some features of labial and oral pigmentation with a variety of conditions, it is a benign and acquired condition, frequently associated with longitudinal melanonychia. Herein, the demographic, clinical, dermoscopic, and pathological aspects of LHS were reviewed comprehensively. The important differential diagnoses of mucocutaneous and nail pigmentation are provided. An accurate diagnosis is crucial to design a reasonable medical strategy, including management options, malignant transformation surveillance, and psychological support. It is important that clinicians conduct long-term follow-up and surveillance due to the potential risks of malignant transformation and local severe complications in some conditions.
Core tip: Although Laugier-Hunziker syndrome (LHS) is an uncommon disorder, labial or oral pigmentation is often encountered daily and clinically. By conducting a thorough review of the topic, the aims of the paper are to present the clinical, dermoscopic, and pathological features of LHS concisely and clearly. More to the point, the outlined typical features of various conditions associated with labial, oral, and nail pigmentation are conducive to facilitate differential diagnosis, promote early recognition of underlying diseases, and prevent unnecessary testing.