café-au-lait spots
Pronunciation: ka-FAY oh LAY
Light brown skin pigmentations that, when numerous, may indicate neurofibromatosis type 1, relevant to orthopedic screening.
Full Definition
Café-au-lait spots are light brown, flat skin lesions that appear coffee-colored with milk (hence the French name). While isolated café-au-lait spots are common and benign, the presence of six or more spots larger than 5mm in prepubertal children or larger than 15mm in postpubertal individuals may indicate neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). This is relevant to pediatric orthopedists because NF1 is associated with various skeletal abnormalities including sphenoid wing dysplasia, ribbon ribs, scoliosis, and pseudarthrosis of the tibia. Recognition of these skin findings prompts appropriate genetic evaluation and orthopedic surveillance.
Usage
Usage note: Document the number and size of spots; six or more may indicate neurofibromatosis.
In Context
- "The patient had eight café-au-lait spots measuring greater than 5mm, meeting criteria for neurofibromatosis type 1." — pediatric orthopedic assessment
- "Patients with café-au-lait spots should be monitored for spinal deformities and tibial pseudarthrosis." — clinical surveillance protocol