- Carotenosis
Carotenosis, or carotenosis cutis, is a benign yellowing of the skin in fair skinned humans caused by high dietary uptake of
carotenoids . Conversion of carotenoids toretinol is capped, and excess carotenoids are stored inadipose tissue s, including subcutaneous fat, thus altering the skin color. No other symptoms are known, but carotenosis may be part of a case ofmalnutrition .Depending on the culture and individual disposition, the aesthetic effect on skin color may be seen as positive or negative. Carotenosis is most often caused by excessive consumption of
carotene supplements, though very excessive consumption ofcarrot s may also cause it. Some people intentionally contract carotenosis as a substitute forsuntanning . [http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a2_228.html]Carotenosis is sometimes misdiagnosed as
jaundice . The latter, however, also affects the color of thesclera , while the former does not. Abilirubin serum test can also be used to verify whether jaundice is involved.
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