Nevus depigmentosus: Difference between revisions

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'''Nevus depigmentosus''' is a type of [[skin lesion]] that is present at birth or appears in early childhood. It is characterized by a patch of skin that is lighter than the surrounding skin due to a lack of [[melanin]], the pigment that gives skin its color.
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Nevus depigmentosus}}


== Causes ==
== Nevus Depigmentosus ==
[[File:Nevus_Depigmentosus.jpg|thumb|right|Nevus depigmentosus on the skin]]


Nevus depigmentosus is caused by a decrease in the number of [[melanocytes]], the cells that produce melanin. The exact reason for this decrease is not known, but it is thought to be due to a genetic mutation.  
'''Nevus depigmentosus''' is a congenital, non-progressive hypopigmented skin condition characterized by a well-defined area of lighter skin. It is often present at birth or develops shortly thereafter. Unlike [[vitiligo]], nevus depigmentosus does not spread over time.


== Symptoms ==
== Clinical Features ==
Nevus depigmentosus typically appears as a solitary, hypopigmented macule or patch. The affected area is lighter than the surrounding skin but retains some pigmentation, distinguishing it from the complete depigmentation seen in vitiligo. The borders of the nevus are usually well-defined and irregular.


The main symptom of nevus depigmentosus is a patch of skin that is lighter than the surrounding skin. This patch can be any size and can occur anywhere on the body. It does not cause any physical discomfort or other symptoms.
== Pathophysiology ==
The exact cause of nevus depigmentosus is not fully understood. It is believed to result from a localized defect in the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to keratinocytes. This defect leads to a reduction in pigmentation in the affected area.


== Diagnosis ==
== Diagnosis ==
Diagnosis of nevus depigmentosus is primarily clinical, based on the appearance of the skin lesion. A [[Wood's lamp]] examination can help differentiate it from other hypopigmented conditions, as the lesion will not fluoresce under ultraviolet light.


Nevus depigmentosus is usually diagnosed by a [[dermatologist]] based on the appearance of the skin. In some cases, a [[skin biopsy]] may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
== Differential Diagnosis ==
 
Conditions that may be considered in the differential diagnosis of nevus depigmentosus include:
== Treatment ==
* [[Vitiligo]]
 
* [[Pityriasis alba]]
There is no cure for nevus depigmentosus, but treatments are available to help manage the condition. These may include [[cosmetic camouflage]] to help blend the patch with the surrounding skin, or [[laser therapy]] to help stimulate melanin production.
* [[Tuberous sclerosis]]
 
* [[Hypomelanosis of Ito]]
== Prognosis ==


Nevus depigmentosus is a benign condition that does not affect a person's overall health. However, it can cause psychological distress due to its appearance.
== Management ==
 
There is no specific treatment required for nevus depigmentosus, as it is a benign condition. Cosmetic camouflage can be used if the appearance of the lesion is a concern for the patient. It is important to educate patients and their families about the benign nature of the condition.
== See also ==


== Related Pages ==
* [[Vitiligo]]
* [[Vitiligo]]
* [[Albinism]]
* [[Melanocyte]]
* [[Melanoma]]
* [[Hypopigmentation]]


[[Category:Dermatology]]
[[Category:Dermatology]]
[[Category:Skin conditions]]
[[Category:Congenital disorders]]
[[Category:Congenital disorders]]
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Revision as of 06:09, 16 February 2025


Nevus Depigmentosus

Nevus depigmentosus on the skin

Nevus depigmentosus is a congenital, non-progressive hypopigmented skin condition characterized by a well-defined area of lighter skin. It is often present at birth or develops shortly thereafter. Unlike vitiligo, nevus depigmentosus does not spread over time.

Clinical Features

Nevus depigmentosus typically appears as a solitary, hypopigmented macule or patch. The affected area is lighter than the surrounding skin but retains some pigmentation, distinguishing it from the complete depigmentation seen in vitiligo. The borders of the nevus are usually well-defined and irregular.

Pathophysiology

The exact cause of nevus depigmentosus is not fully understood. It is believed to result from a localized defect in the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to keratinocytes. This defect leads to a reduction in pigmentation in the affected area.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of nevus depigmentosus is primarily clinical, based on the appearance of the skin lesion. A Wood's lamp examination can help differentiate it from other hypopigmented conditions, as the lesion will not fluoresce under ultraviolet light.

Differential Diagnosis

Conditions that may be considered in the differential diagnosis of nevus depigmentosus include:

Management

There is no specific treatment required for nevus depigmentosus, as it is a benign condition. Cosmetic camouflage can be used if the appearance of the lesion is a concern for the patient. It is important to educate patients and their families about the benign nature of the condition.

Related Pages