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Bleaching cream containing hydroquinone is used to treat skin discolorations including freckles, age spots and Melasma. When it was first approved for use in 1982, the risks of hydroquinone were thought to be limited to minor skin irritations and increased susceptibility to sunburns. However, in recent years evidence has shown there might be an increased risk of cancer.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the cancer risk. The hydroquinone warning stems from its origin as a benzene by-product, which has been found to cause acute myelogenous leukemia.

Hydroquinone Warning

Prior to the initial FDA warning in 2006, bleaching creams using hydroquinone were listed as "generally recognized as safe and effective." This meant that the FDA had a high level of confidence that there were no serious risks of bleaching cream use. The hydroquinone warning was called for after animal studies showed that cancer was one of the risks associated with the skin cream.

The FDA warning called for its removal from the safe and effective list, and mandated that bleaching cream be subjected to rigorous testing. The hydroquinone warning stopped short of removing the product from the market; it is still available to consumers both over-the-counter and by prescription. The prescription strength bleaching cream is generally twice as concentrated as the over-the-counter equivalent.

Dangers of Hydroquinone Bleaching Cream

Prior to the FDA warning about cancer, most of the known risks of hydroquinone products were limited to minor skin irritations which included itching, burning, or stinging sensations shortly after use. In some people these symptoms were quite severe, which usually indicated an allergic reaction, and required immediate medical attention. It has also been found to cause Ochronosis, a blueish or purplish discoloration of the skin.

Acute Myelogenous Leukemia Risk

By far the most serious risk of hydroquinone use is acute myelogenous leukemia. This disease affects the blood and bone marrow and causes abnormal white blood cells. The abnormal cells gather in bone marrow, crowding out healthy cells and limiting the production of red blood cells and platelets. The consequences include:

• Inability to fight off infections
• Easy bruising and bleeding
• Fatigue and shortness of breath

The disease is very serious. Although it can be cured through chemotherapy and other invasive treatments, it is responsible for over 1 percent of all cancer related deaths each year.

Contact a Hydroquinone Injury Attorney

If you are a former user who has developed leukemia, contact a hydroquinone injury lawyer to protect your rights. You may have developed this disease due to hydroquinone exposure. We are currently evaluating against the manufacturers. Contact us if you believe you might have a case.