SKINIPEDIA - Skin Diseases: Congenital Dermal Melanocytosis
Skin Diseases and Conditions: Congenital Dermal Melanocytosis (Mongolian Spot) - WORKUP
Author: Abdul-Ghani Kibbi, MD, Professor and Chair, Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Lebanon
Coauthor(s): Ruba Faik Bahhady, MD,, Senior Specialist, Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center; Zeina Tannous, MD, Consulting Staff, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; Mazen Kurban, MD, Staff Physician, Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center
Laboratory Studies
Usually, laboratory studies are not indicated except when extensive Mongolian spots are present. In these circumstances, it is advisable to evaluate the patient for inborn errors of metabolism in order to avoid irreversible organ damage.
Imaging Studies
In extensive Mongolian spots involving the back, radiographic studies are needed to rule out a spinal meningeal tumor or anomaly.
Histologic Findings
Dendritic melanocytes with variably pigmented melanosomes typically are located in the deep reticular dermis. The melanocytes usually are oriented parallel to the epidermis. In contrast, the melanocytes in blue nevi are denser in number and more focally aggregated.
Medical Care
Opaque cosmetics may be used as camouflage for Mongolian spots.
Surgical Care
The value of lasers in Mongolian spot is uncertain. However, in a retrospective study of 26 Japanese patients, the Q-switched alexandrite laser showed better outcomes in extrasacral lesions treated at a younger age
Prognosis
Mongolian spots usually fade in the first year of life, but, at times, they may persist indefinitely.
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