6.3.1 Café-au-lait Macules

Definition

Homogeneous tan-coloured macules of varying sizes with increased melanin, but no increase in number of melanocytes; often congenital. 

Signs & Symptoms

Circumscribed tan macules.

Localisation

No favoured sites. 

Dermatopathology

Increased melanin in basal keratinocyte layer.

Course

Stable.

Complications

More than 5 café-au-lait macules maybe suggestive of neurofibromatosis. 

Diagnosis

Clinical findings.

Differential diagnosis

Prevention & Therapy

None required. Laser destruction possible.

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