HYDROQUINONE NEUROPATHY FOLLOWING USE OF SKIN BLEACHING CREAMS: CASE REPORT

Abstract

A 30-year old black woman presented with gradual onset of weakness of the legs associated
with burning sensation in the feet for two months. She had been using two hydroquinone -
based skin bleaching creams (MGC by M. G. C. International, MEKAKO by Anglo Fabrics
I30LTON Ltd) for about four years. Her BP was 80140mm Hg supine with un-recordable
diastolic pressure on standing. She had decreased power (Grade 315), loss of deep tendon
reflexes and impairment of deep sensation in the lower limbs. A complete blood count,
urinalysis, serum electrolytes, serum creatinine and uric acid were all normal. Oral GTT,
VDRL and brucella tests were negative. Chest and abdominal radiographs did not show any
abnormalities. A diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy with autonomic neuropathy possibly
due to hydroquinone toxicity was made and she was advised to stop using hydroquinone
based skin bleaching creams. Four months later she was asymptomatic, her BP was 1201
80mmHg supine and standing, and neurological examination was normal. The case raises the
question of whether hydroquinone based skin bleaching creams could be a cause of
peripheral neuropathy and underscores the need for research on hydroquinone based skin
bleaching creams and neuropathy particularly in black women involved in the sale and/or
use of skin bleaching creams.