Case for diagnosis

Abstract

Pigmentary demarcation lines are physiologically abrupt transition lines from areas of deeper pigmentation to less pigmented areas. They are most often seen in African and Japanese individuals and rarely observed in Caucasians. There are eight types of pigmentary demarcation lines. The one described here, type B, is restricted to women and is associated with pregnancy in non-black patients. This type of pigmentary demarcation line occurs in the posterior aspect of the legs, extending from the perineum to the ankle. Its distribution follows the Voigt's lines, which define the distribution of peripheral nerves. Its pathogenesis remains unknown. Expectant treatment is used, and good results have been reported with the use of Q-switched Alexandrite laser.

A case of woolly hair nevus associated with pigmentary demarcation lines and heterochromia iridis: Coincidence or a new association?

“…Pigmentary demarcation lines (PDL) are transition lines between the areas of darker and lighter or normal pigmentation with eight different types described (A–H). [ 6 ] Type A is an anterolateral aspect of upper arm with variable transpectoral extension and the type C is in median or paramedian vertical lines on the chest with midline abdominal extension. [ 6 ] In our subject, the coexistence of type A and C is observed.…”

“…[ 6 ] Type A is an anterolateral aspect of upper arm with variable transpectoral extension and the type C is in median or paramedian vertical lines on the chest with midline abdominal extension. [ 6 ] In our subject, the coexistence of type A and C is observed. [ 6 ] PDL is thought to coincide with the distribution of cutaneous nerve innervations.…”

“…[ 6 ] PDL is thought to coincide with the distribution of cutaneous nerve innervations. [ 6 ] Krivo proposed that these lines are related to pigmentary mosaicism. [ 7 ]…”

Pigmentary demarcation lines in pregnancy

“…Since prominence of Type B PDL is more associated with pregnancy, local factors in the pelvis like compression and neurogenic inflammation of nerve roots S1 and S2 by enlarging uterus may be a significant contributing factor for Type B PDL as reported by previous authors. [ 10 ] We are postulating that sacral nerve root compression which is more common in occipitoposterior deliveries might have added to aggravation of PDL on lower limbs in our patient after delivery. PDL on the face are fairly common in the Indian population especially among the females.…”

Pigmentary Demarcation Lines During Pregnancy With Erythema

“…Most PDLs appear in the last trimester of pregnancy and resolve spontaneously after delivery in a period of 6 to 12 months [ 2 , 6 ].…”