Incontinentia pigmenti achromians is a rare birth defect that causes unusual patches of light-colored (hypopigmented) skin and possible neurological and skeletal problems.
See also: Hypopigmentation
The cause is unknown. Girls are affected slightly more often than boys.
A Wood's lamp examination of the skin lesions may help confirm the diagnosis. Your doctor may also recommend chromosome analysis or a further medical workup to discover any related medical problems.
There is no treatment for the hypopigmentation. Treatment consists of treating the symptoms. Cosmetics or clothing may be used to cover the hypopigmented spots if desired. Seizures, scoliosis, and other problems are treated as necessary.
The outcome varies depending on the type and severity of symptoms that develop. In most cases, the skin pigment eventually returns to normal.
Call your health care provider if your child exhibits an unusual pattern of the color of the skin.
Review Date:
4/16/2007
Reviewed By:
Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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