Simple cases

No image for NaN

Case 36

36

It has grown a bit with me but not otherwise changed.

The growth pattern of a pigmented lesion is always important, especially if malignant change is suspected. Many such lesions growth as the patient grows.

Since I was born.

Good question, as it helps to narrow down the differential diagnostic considerations.

Yes, I have one more.

Good question. If a patient has 5 or more such lesions, one must consider a common genodermatosis.

I work in a chemical laboratory.

Even though such a lesion is not work-related, an occupational history helps you exclude mental retardation which is seen in some syndromes with such lesions.

No, it just bothers me a little because of its appearance.

Good question, as it helps to exclude a fungal infection, which usually itches.

No.

A very specialized question; axillary freckling is another sign for neurofibromatosis, the genodermatosis most often associated with these lesions.

Choose the right efflorescences:

Good, this is a macule, as one can see it, but not locate it with touch alone.

A papule is raised, which is not the case here.

Lichenification means thickening of the skin, which is not the case here.

An erosion is a superficial skin defect. Here the skin is intact.

Choose the right diagnosis:

Lentigos are usually smaller and multiple, but otherwise similar

Very good. This is a classic café-au-lait macule. Solitary or few lesions of no significance; if a patient has more than 5 such lesions, then neurofibromatosis should be excluded.

Vitiligo is caused by depigmentation of the skin, usually presenting with white macules and patches. In extensive vitiligo, a patch of normal skin could be mistaken for a café-au-lait macule.

This doesn't fit. Dermatophyte infections are usually more red than brown, itch and have peripheral scale, where one can usually find the organisms on KOH examination.

Choose the right therapy(ies):

The risk of hypopigmentation is considerable.

The scar is usually worse than the lesion, especially on the back.

No therapy is needed in this case. Café-au-lait macules have no malignant potential.

Once again, the risk of depigmentation is considerable.

Mark article as unread
Article has been read
Mark article as read