title: Incontinentia pigmenti (Bloch-Sulzberger syndrome): a systemic disorder.
abstract: Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a rare inherited multisystem disorder characterized by a distinctive swirling pattern of the skin; defects of teeth, hair, and nails; and ophthalmic, central nervous system, and musculoskeletal abnormalities. It progresses through several well-defined stages. IP is transmitted as a dominant X-linked trait with variable expressivity, but many--if not most--cases are sporadic. IP has been shown to result from mutations in the NEMO gene that completely abolish expression of NF-kappaB essential modulator. The diagnosis of IP typically is made based on characteristic clinical findings. Molecular analysis of the NEMO gene is now possible, as is analysis of skewed X-chromosome inactivation, which can further reduce diagnostic confusion. A number of disorders, including hypomelanosis of Ito, should be considered in the differential diagnosis. The considerations vary according to the stage of IP. Careful head-to-toe clinical evaluation is critical in the evaluation of a child with suspected IP given the frequent multisystem involvement. A multidisciplinary approach including dermatology, ophthalmology, neurology, and dental consults is typically warranted. The skin manifestations of IP do not require specific treatment other than reassurance; spontaneous resolution of the lesions usually occurs.
authors.affiliation: Dermatology and Pediatrics, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark 07103-2714, USA.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ehrenreich
authors.forename: Mordechai M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Tarlow
authors.forename: Elizabeth
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Godlewska-Janusz
authors.forename: Robert A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Schwartz
mesh_terms: D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D007184:Incontinentia Pigmenti / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*