Café au lait spot

Café au lait spot (also known as Café au lait macule or CALM) is a flat, pigmented birthmark. The name café au lait is French for "coffee with milk" and refers to the color of the spot, which can range from light brown to dark brown.

Description

Café au lait spots are often present at birth, but can also develop later in childhood. They are usually round or oval in shape and can appear anywhere on the body. The size of the spots can vary greatly, from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. The color of the spots is due to an increase in melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.

Causes

Café au lait spots can occur in anyone, but are more common in individuals with certain genetic conditions, such as Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and McCune-Albright syndrome. In these conditions, multiple café au lait spots are often present and are a key diagnostic feature. However, having one or two café au lait spots is common and does not necessarily indicate the presence of a genetic condition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of café au lait spots is usually based on their characteristic appearance. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. If multiple café au lait spots are present, further testing may be recommended to check for associated genetic conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for café au lait spots is usually not necessary, as they are harmless. However, some individuals may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Treatment options include laser therapy and surgical removal.

See also

• Birthmark
• Melanin
• Neurofibromatosis type 1
• McCune-Albright syndrome