nevus of Ota

Mottled, blue-brown hyperpigmentation generally involving the skin & mucous membrane innervated by the 1st & 2nd branch of the trigeminal nerve. Etiology: 1) blue hue results from ectopic melanocytes in dermis, hard palate, conjunctivae, sclerae & tympanic membranes 2) may be congenital, but is not hereditary Epidemiology: 1) very common disorder in Asians (1% in Japan) 2) has been reported in East Indians, blacks & rarely whites Clinical manifestations: 1) blue-gray hyperpigmentation because pigment is dermal rather than epidermal 2) distribution: skin & mucous membrane innervated by the 1st & second branch of the trigeminal nerve 3) may be congenital, but generally appears during childhood or puberty & remains for life Complications: melanoma is rare Management: - laser therapy

References

Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, Common and Serious Diseases, 3rd ed, Fitzpatrick et al, McGraw Hill, NY, 1997, pg 147