Nail and mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation with azidothymidine therapy.

Hyperpigmentation developed in six patients while they were receiving azidothymidine. All demonstrated hyperpigmentation of the nails; hyperpigmentation of the skin (two patients) and oral mucosa (two patients) also developed. The degree of nail pigmentation was related to the intrinsic skin color of the patient. Mucosal hyperpigmentation developed only in dark-skinned blacks. The pigmentation was due to increased melanin in the epidermis and dermis.