The term "extraneous pigmentation" refers to an abnormal presence of pigmentation in areas where it is not usually expected. The word "extraneous" is pronounced as /ɪkˈstreɪ.ni.əs/, with stress on the second syllable, whereas "pigmentation" is pronounced as /ˌpɪɡ.mənˈteɪ.ʃən/, with stress on the third syllable. The combination of both words makes the pronunciation a bit tricky, but it is usually pronounced as /ɪkˈstreɪ.ni.əs pɪɡ.mənˈteɪ.ʃən/ with stress on the second syllable of "pigmentation".
Extraneous pigmentation refers to the presence of pigment in areas or on surfaces where it is not typically found, or where it is considered abnormal or unwanted. Pigmentation generally refers to the coloration of tissues in an organism caused by the deposition or production of pigment. However, in the context of extraneous pigmentation, it specifically refers to pigmented areas that are considered excessive or unrelated to the normal distribution.
In biology, extraneous pigmentation can occur due to various factors, such as abnormal melanin production or deposition, exposure to certain substances, or as a result of disease processes. For instance, in humans, extraneous pigmentation could manifest as dark patches or spots on the skin that are unrelated to normal skin pigmentation patterns. These pigmented areas may be caused by conditions like hyperpigmentation, melasma, or certain skin disorders.
The term "extraneous" implies that the pigmentation is superfluous or beyond what is expected or desired. It suggests that the pigmentation is not part of the natural or typical appearance of the area or surface affected. Extraneous pigmentation can often be aesthetically displeasing or may signify an underlying health condition that requires medical attention. Consequently, treatments or interventions may be sought to reduce or eliminate the excess pigment and restore a more normal appearance.
Discoloration of the skin or tissues by a pigment introduced from without, as in argyria.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "extraneous" comes from the Latin word "extra", meaning "outside" or "beyond", and the suffix "-aneous", which signifies "possessing the quality of". Therefore, "extraneous" refers to something that is additional, unnecessary, or unrelated.
The term "pigmentation" is derived from the Latin word "pigmentum", meaning "coloring substance" or "paint". It refers to the natural coloring or discoloration of a tissue, surface, or organism.
When combined, "extraneous pigmentation" describes an additional or unnecessary presence of pigmentation or coloration that is not typical or expected in a particular context. This term is commonly used in medical or biological fields to describe abnormal or excessive pigmentation, such as in skin disorders where there is an appearance of irregular pigmentation patches.