Hypochromia is the term used in hematology to refer to the decreased coloration of erythrocytes (red cells or blood cells red blood cells) due to hemoglobin deficiency, characterized by increased central brightness of the Red Cells.
At dermatology, the term hypochromia is used to designate blemishes on the skin that are lighter than the skin itself.
The word "hypochromia" comes from the Greek (Hypo = below and Chroma = color) and literally means, "faded in color".
In hematology, hypochromia may be general or affect only a part of the number of erythrocytes. It arises as a result of decreased hemoglobin production mainly due to iron deficiency and thalassemia.
In fact, any condition that causes microcytosis (reduced red blood cell diameter) can cause hypochromia.
Normally, the erythrocytes of healthy children are hypochromic compared to those of adults.
Some examples of hypochromia in dermatology:
- Post inflammatory patches;
- Pityriasis alba (spots located in areas exposed to the sun);
- Pityriasis versicolor or "White Cloth" (mycosis);
- Vitiligo;
- Leucodermia puntata solar (small oval spots that appear due to the sun).
Hyperchromia
At hematology, hyperchromia is the term used to refer to cells with a color intensity greater than normal, however, it is rarely used to describe blood distension.
Hyperchromia is a condition often seen in spherocytes (spherical cells) and irregularly contracted cells.
At dermatology, hyperchromia refers to patches on the skin that are darker than the skin itself.
