Nevus sebaceus of Jadassohn

Nevus Sebaceus of Jadassohn

Nevus sebaceus of Jadassohn, also known as organoid nevus, is a congenital, hairless plaque that typically occurs on the scalp or face. It is a type of epidermal nevus that is characterized by an overgrowth of sebaceous glands, along with other epidermal and dermal components. This condition is named after the German dermatologist Josef Jadassohn, who first described it in 1895.

Clinical Presentation

Nevus sebaceus of Jadassohn usually presents at birth or becomes apparent in early childhood. It appears as a well-circumscribed, yellow-orange, hairless plaque. The lesion is often smooth in childhood but can become more verrucous or nodular during adolescence or adulthood due to hormonal changes that stimulate sebaceous gland activity.

Histopathology

Histologically, nevus sebaceus is characterized by:

• Hyperplasia of sebaceous glands
• Acanthosis and papillomatosis of the epidermis
• Absence of hair follicles in the affected area
• Possible presence of apocrine glands

Complications

While nevus sebaceus is benign, it can be associated with the development of secondary neoplasms. The most common benign neoplasm is trichoblastoma, but there is also a risk of basal cell carcinoma and other adnexal tumors developing within the lesion, particularly after puberty.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the lesion. Dermoscopy can aid in the evaluation, and a biopsy may be performed if there is suspicion of malignant transformation.

Management

Management of nevus sebaceus involves regular monitoring for changes that might indicate malignant transformation. Surgical excision is often recommended, especially if there are cosmetic concerns or if the lesion changes in appearance. Excision is typically performed after puberty, when the risk of neoplastic transformation increases.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with nevus sebaceus is generally good, especially with regular monitoring and timely intervention if neoplastic changes occur.

Also see

• Epidermal nevus
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Trichoblastoma
• Sebaceous gland

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