Suntans, moles, and freckles are examples of which type of pigmentation?

Suntans, moles, and freckles are all manifestations of skin pigmentation that arise primarily from the presence and activity of melanin, which is produced by melanocytes in the skin. These types of pigmentation are categorized under melanosis, a term that refers to an increase in melanin production, whether due to environmental factors like sun exposure or genetic factors.

Moles (or nevi) are clusters of melanocytes that can vary in pigmentation, while freckles are small, flat, brown marks that become more prominent with sun exposure. Suntans develop as a protective response to ultraviolet radiation, resulting in the skin producing more melanin to absorb and dissipate that energy.

The other options refer to different types of pigmentation conditions:

• Depigmentation refers to reduced melanin production, which does not apply here as the question focuses on pigmentation rather than its absence.

• Biliary pigmentation is associated with the deposition of bilirubin, often due to liver issues, which again does not pertain to the context of sun exposure and skin pigmentation.

• Phlegmon is a term used for a spreading area of inflammation, typically in connective tissue, and is unrelated to skin pigmentation.

Thus, the correct choice identifies the type of pigmentation that is predominantly related to