Café-au-lait spots

Share This Post

Café-au-lait spots

Café-au-lait spots

 

Café-au-lait spots, also known as café-au-lait macules, are common pigmented birthmarks characterized by flat patches of skin that are darker in color than the surrounding skin.  These spots typically appear at birth or develop during early childhood and can vary in size, shape, and coloration.

Symptoms and Causes of Café-au-lait spots

Café-au-lait (CAL) spots have a distinct appearance on the skin that sets them apart from other birthmarks.  Characteristics of CAL spots include:

  • Flat spots on the skin, typically on the torso, arms, legs and buttocks.
  • Light brown to dark brown color.
  • Round or oval shape, between 2 millimeters to more than 20 centimeters in diameter.
  • Smooth or rigid border around the spot.
  • Spots can grow in size and number with age.
  • Spots are painless and don’t cause itchiness or other symptoms.

This condition is generally harmless and do not cause any health problems.  However, the presence of multiple café-au-lait spots or very large spots may be associated with certain genetic conditions, such as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) or McCune-Albright syndrome.  In such cases, individuals may have other symptoms or health issues in addition to this condition and further evaluation by a healthcare professional may be warranted.

What Causes Cafe-au-Lait Spots?

An increase in the number of melanocytes causes cafe-au-lait spots.  Melanocytes are skin cells that produce melanin, a pigment that darkens the skin.

 Having more than six cafe-au-lait spots can signify an underlying genetic condition.

Are you suffering from any foot condition?  At The Chelsea Clinic, we can help.  One of our podiatrist can assist and then recommend what treatments are best to get you back on track. Podiatrist South Kensington
Schedule an appointment here or you may call us at +44 (0) 207 101 4000

 

We hope you have a feetastic day!

-The Chelsea Clinic and Team

 

 

Learn more about Fungal Nails

More To Explore

Pemphigus Vulgaris of the Foot
Uncategorized

Pemphigus Vulgaris of the Foot

Pemphigus Vulgaris of the Foot   Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by the formation of blisters and erosions on the skin and

Chiropodist Chelsea SW10

Paola Ash at the Chelsea Clinic

At The Chelsea clinic we have a very specific skill set with regards the foot and ankle. Pleased to offer a bespoke service which is tailored to the individual. With over 20 years experience in the Fitness and Healthcare industry we are registered and qualified with the Health Care Professions Council, the College of Podiatry and the General Osteopathic Council.