Pigmented transverse nasal band: A distinct presentation

Abstract

Pigmented transverse nasal band (PTNB) is an interesting morphological entity mainly of cosmetic concern. It is believed to be related to a defect in the development of the nasal cartilages and bones from childhood to adolescence. Some patients may have genetic predisposition. It is asymptomatic in nature and may be associated with certain dermatological conditions such as seborrheic diathesis, dermatosis papulosa nigra, ichthyosis, atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, psoriasis, and seborrheic melanosis.

Pigmented transverse nasal band: A review

“…1,2 In addition, Wimmershoff et al reported two cases that presented at birth. 6 There might be a genetic 7 and racial predilection 8 in Caucasians.…”

“…For example, in case of a larger lower lateral nasal cartilage, the lesion may shift a few millimeters upwards. 4,7 Anderson suggested a genetic predisposition, due to the inheritance of a single dominant gene. 2 An embryological origin has also been proposed by Shelley et al, as the nose forms at six weeks of gestation by fusion of medial nasal process with frontonasal process.…”

“…3 Even though the above theories have been suggested to account for transverse nasal crease, the cause of pigmentation is yet not clear. 7…”

“…Pigmented transverse nasal band or crease is situated at the junction of middle and lower third of nose [Figure 1] just proximal to alae nasi or a few millimeters above this junction, due to interindividual variation in size of nasal cartilage. 7 It may present as a faint erythematous line to a groove with depth of several millimeteres. 10,11 The groove is well demarcated, extends transversely along the dorsum of nose, 1-3 mm in width and about 1 mm in depth.…”

“…5 This condition belongs to a subset of transverse nasal lesions that have different clinical presentations. 4,7 Transverse nasal groove is the earliest morphological description, subsequently, other morphologies such as line, strip, ridge and loop have been reported. 4 The transverse nasal line appears as a 1-2 mm hyperpigmented, thread-like structure whereas transverse nasal strip presents as 3-5 mm hyperpigmented, transverse band, neither demonstrating any surface change nor depression.…”