|

263425 Nevus of Ota

definition

Nevus of Ota is an oculodermal melanocytosis more commonly found in Asian and African populations, usually present at birth and characterized by a usually unilateral, bluish gray, patchy, speckled pigmentation (that may progressively enlarge and darken) affecting the skin of the face along the distribution of the ophthalmic and maxillary divisions of the trigeminal nerve (periorbital region, temple, forehead, malar area, nose). In 2/3 cases the ipsilateral sclera is affected. Nevus of Ota usually remains stable once adulthood is reached but an increased risk of glaucoma and uveal melanoma (see this term) may be observed. Extracutaneous lesions may also occur in cornea, retina, tympanum, nasal mucosa, pharynx, palate. Nevus of Ota occurs as solitary conditions but seldom may occur together with the nevus of Ito (see this term) or nevus spilus.