As the homogentisic acid accumulates in these patients, it eventually begins depositing in skin and cartilage tissue, for which it has an affinity, becoming visibly noticeable in the fourth decade of life. The sclera is one of the first areas to be noticeably involved. A subtle brown discoloration begin to form on the lateral aspect of the sclera and continues to darken over the lifetime of the patient. The ear cartilage becomes dark brown to almost bluish due to the accumulation of the homogentisic acid. The cerumen is dark black, and evaluation of the ear may also show a darkening of the tympanic membrane and the stapes, incus, and malleus bones of the inner ear. The patient may suffer from tinnitus.
Related posts:
Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
Full access? Get Clinical Tree
