Alternative names
Incontinentia pigmenti syndrome

Definition

Incontinentia pigmenti syndrome is an inherited disorder that causes unusual blistering of the skin followed by increased pigmentation.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Incontinentia pigmenti syndrome (IPS) is inherited as a dominant X-linked trait. Almost all cases are among females and the condition may be lethal in males. IPS may also arise as a spontaneous mutation.

Infants with IPS are born with blistery (vesicular) lesions which appear as streaks. These lesions heal as rough or verrucous papules. Eventually, these papules clear but leave damaged hyperpigmented (too much pigment) skin behind. After several years, the skin returns to normal. In some adults, whorls and streaks of faint hypopigmentation (less pigment than normal) may appear.

Most people with IPS also have other problems including abnormal teeth, hair loss, and central nervous system (CNS) abnormalities. CNS problems may include retardation and delayed development, seizures, spasticity, and paralysis. Visual problems may develop in up to a third of affected people.

Symptoms

 
• blistering lesions in the newborn  
• areas of hypopigmentation  
• whorls and unusual patterns of hyperpigmentation  
• abnormal teeth  
• delayed development  
• seizures

Signs and tests

 
• classical pigmentary changes, whorls, and unusual patterns  
• early vesiculation in linear streaks (lines of blisters)  
• hair loss  
• retardation  
• spasticity  
• paralysis  
• abnormal retinal findings on eye examination  
• cataracts  
• strabismus (crossed eyes)  
• microcephaly (abnormally small head)  
• bone abnormalities

Treatment
There is no one treatment for IPS. Therapies must address the specific problems that are present.

Expectations (prognosis)

Prognosis varies depending on the degree of central nervous system involvement and visual impairment.

Complications

 
• secondary infections of blistered skin  
• mental retardation  
• delayed development  
• seizures  
• paralysis  
• muscle spasticity and difficulty walking  
• visual problems

Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you have a family history of this disorder and are considering having children, or if your child shows symptoms that characterize this disorder.

Prevention
Genetic counseling may be of value for prospective parents with a family history of IPS.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.