Nevus of Ota
Nevus of Ota, otherwise termed as oculodermal melanosis, is an uncommon bluish grey, sometimes brown, pigmented birthmark on one side of the face which has a higher predilection for Asians.
It affects females more than males. Up to two thirds present at birth or shortly thereafter, with the remaining third presenting at puberty.
When do we worry?
Location
- If the eyes are affected, melanocytosis may rarely lead to glaucoma
Cutaneous malignant change (4.6%) 1-3
- Presence of subcutaneous nodules as opposed to following the ABCDE rule (asymmetry, border irregularity, color variegation, diameter > 6mm, evolution) to survey for melanoma
- Malignant change can rarely occur within the brain
Nevus of Ota, otherwise termed as oculodermal melanosis, is an uncommon bluish grey, sometimes brown, pigmented birthmark on one side of the face which has a higher predilection for Asians.
It affects females more than males. Up to two thirds present at birth or shortly thereafter, with the remaining third presenting at puberty.
When do we worry?
Location
- If the eyes are affected, melanocytosis may rarely lead to glaucoma
Cutaneous malignant change (4.6%) 1-3
- Presence of subcutaneous nodules as opposed to following the ABCDE rule (asymmetry, border irregularity, color variegation, diameter > 6mm, evolution) to survey for melanoma
- Malignant change can rarely occur within the brain
Treatments available in the clinic include:
If cosmesis is of concern, laser treatment can be performed. Lasers performed in children at a mean age of 3 years old, required fewer treatment sessions and had greater response rates. Treatment at an early age before school going age helps with clinical and psychological outcome. Although, recurrence can occur a few years later.
References
- Patel BC et al. Cutaneous malignant melanoma and oculodermal melanocytosis (nevus of ota): report of a case and review of the literature. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1998;38:862-865.
- Shaffer D et al. Malignant melanoma in a Hispanic male with nevus of Ota. Dermatology. 1992;185:146-150.
- Baroody M et al. Extensive locoregional malignant melanoma transformation in a patient with oculodermal melanocytosis. Plast Recontr Surg. 2004;113:317-322.
Mount Alvernia Hospital
820 Thomson Road
St Anne Mother & Child Centre
#02-81
Singapore 574623
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