Linear Epidermal Nevus

My healthy, 4 year old son was born with about a 2 inch birthmark down his neck.  I was told it was an epidermal nevus and not to worry.  After 4 years and just a little bit of changing (mostly the texture and growing as he grows) I decided to take him to a dermatologist just to be safe.  It was  biopsied, and I was just told it is consistent with a LINEAR epidermal nevus and that it is fine.  My worry now comes from the little bit of information that I also received from the dermatologist, informing me of possible complications that could come up in the future regarding eye, muscle, and neurological issues... I guess called L.E.N. syndrome.  What I'm wondering, is if something was going to go wrong, wouldn't things be showing up by now after 4 years?  My son is very healthy and developing right on track.  Can this now change in the future and he develop something after this long? He only has the one mark on his neck and no other conditions of any kind. Thanks for any information you can give!

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

A 2-inch lesion is indeed the linear variety, not the one with systemic complications, which i don't think you need to worry about at all.  The ones with complications are large and on many areas, unlike your son's.  You can leave the lesion alone.  When your son gets older, he can opt to have it cut out if it bothers him, though most people don't bother.

Not to worry.

Dr. Rockoff

[TJB]

Thank you very much for your response... you've put my mind at ease!  I have one last question... Have you ever seen a child with a LEN and then years later more show up? And... have you seen any success with laser treatment?  Thanks agan.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

No to both....

Dr. Rockoff

[jbaby]

I wanted to know if there was anyone out there who has epidermal nevus on their bikini line?  Ive had it since I was 9 months old and they told me that by the time I was sixteen it would be gone.....its still here and Im much older. Its the most annoying thing ever and Im currently looking to have it removed.

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