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Linea nigra in newborn
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Linea nigra in newborn

Contributors: Craig N. Burkhart MD, Dean Morrell MD, Lowell A. Goldsmith MD, MPH
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Linea nigra is a hyperpigmented linear patch that extends from the pubis to the umbilicus. It is most commonly seen in pregnant individuals and is thought to be a result of increased sex hormone levels. In the neonate, linea nigra is attributed to maternal and placental hormones that result in a "mini puberty." It is more common in girls than boys and is more common in infants with darker skin colors. It is a normal variant and should not cause any concern if there are no associated ambiguous genitalia.

Codes

ICD10CM:
L81.8 – Other specified disorders of pigmentation

SNOMEDCT:
90751002 – Linea nigra

Look For

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Diagnostic Pearls

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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls

The most important differential is congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which would have linea nigra and ambiguous genitalia.

Best Tests

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Management Pearls

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Therapy

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References

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Last Updated:02/01/2022
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Linea nigra in newborn
A medical illustration showing key findings of Linea nigra in newborn : Brown color, Hyperpigmented patch, Linear configuration, Present at birth
Clinical image of Linea nigra in newborn - imageId=6721692. Click to open in gallery.  caption: 'A prominent linear brown patch on the central lower abdomen.'
A prominent linear brown patch on the central lower abdomen.
Copyright © 2023 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.