Neurocutaneous melanosis with epilepsy: report of one case

Acta Paediatr Taiwan. 2001 Mar-Apr;42(2):108-10.

Abstract

Neurocutaneous melanosis is a rare congenital syndrome characterized by the association of large or multiple congenital melanocytic nevi and benign or malignant melanotic tumors in the central nervous system. Patients with neurocutaneous melanosis usually have neurological symptoms early in life that progress rapidly due to the development of increased intracranial pressure or malignant melanoma. We report a 2-month-old female infant with multiple congenital melanocytic nevi and frequent seizure attacks. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain demonstrated several regions compatible with melanotic deposits. During follow-up for one year, she had normal development and was seizure-free under the treatment of phenobarbital and valproic acid. We suggest that infants with large or multiple congenital melanocytic nevi should receive regular clinical check-up and brain imaging to exclude the possibility of central nervous system lesions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Epilepsy / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Melanosis / complications*
  • Neurocutaneous Syndromes / complications*