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.