Which condition is associated with oral mucosa and skin pigmentation?

Addison's disease is characterized by inadequate production of hormones from the adrenal glands, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. One of the hallmark signs of this condition is hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes. This occurs due to increased levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, resulting in darkening of the skin and oral mucosa.

In Addison's disease, the pigmentation can present as a tan or bronze appearance, especially in areas exposed to friction, such as the gums, skin creases, and areas around scars or pressure points. This is a distinctive feature that helps differentiate Addison's disease from other conditions.

In contrast, diabetes mellitus typically does not exhibit such pigmentation changes in the skin or mucosa. Multiple myeloma is primarily associated with bone marrow involvement and systemic symptoms rather than pigmentation. Cushing's disease, which involves excessive cortisol, can lead to different skin manifestations, such as thinning skin or striae, but it does not typically cause the type of pigmentation observed in Addison's disease.