Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita
Pronunciation: KYOO-tis mar-mor-AH-tah tel-an-jee-ek-TAT-ih-kah kon-JEN-ih-tah
A rare vascular anomaly of neonates and infants characterised by persistent, reticulated, marble-like discolouration of the skin with associated telangiectasia and, in some cases, skin atrophy or ulceration.
Full Definition
Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita (CMTC) presents at birth or in early infancy as a fixed, reticulate purplish mottling of the skin that does not fade with warming, distinguishing it from physiological cutis marmorata. The vascular pattern is caused by ectatic dermal capillaries and venules and is typically localised to one limb or body segment, though generalised forms exist. Associated anomalies include limb asymmetry, port-wine stains, glaucoma, and neurological features, collectively described within the Adams–Oliver spectrum. Editors must not confuse CMTC with physiological cutis marmorata, which is a transient, benign thermoregulatory response in newborns. In clinical manuscripts the full term should be spelled out on first use followed by the abbreviation CMTC.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate to CMTC after first full use. Never abbreviate on first mention without spelling out in full. Distinguish explicitly from benign physiological cutis marmorata.
In Context
- "The neonatologist noted persistent mottling on the infant's left leg that did not resolve with warming, prompting a referral for cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita." — Neonatal dermatology consultation report
- "Authors should specify whether 'cutis marmorata' refers to the benign physiological variant or to cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita, as the two differ significantly in prognosis." — Editorial style guidance for pediatric dermatology submissions