Nevus of Ito

Nevus of Ito, also known as nevus fuscoceruleus acromiodeltoideus, is a benign dermal melanocytic condition characterized by blue-gray or brown-gray hyperpigmentation affecting the shoulder, upper arm, and supraclavicular regions. It is closely related to Nevus of Ota, which affects the face and periorbital area; however, Nevus of Ito specifically involves the skin innervated by the posterior supraclavicular and lateral cutaneous brachial nerves. The condition results from the presence of ectopic melanocytes in the dermis, which produce the characteristic mottled or patchy pigmentation. Nevus of Ito is typically present at birth or appears during early childhood, though onset during puberty has also been reported. It is more commonly observed in individuals of Asian descent and in females. The condition is generally unilateral, though bilateral cases have been described. The pigmentation is usually stable but may darken or expand during puberty or pregnancy due to hormonal influences. While Nevus of Ito is a benign condition with no systemic involvement in most cases, rare associations with melanoma arising within the nevus have been reported, warranting periodic clinical monitoring. Treatment is primarily pursued for cosmetic reasons, as the condition does not typically cause medical complications. Laser therapy, particularly Q-switched lasers (such as Q-switched alexandrite, Q-switched Nd:YAG, and Q-switched ruby lasers), has been the most effective treatment modality for reducing or eliminating the pigmentation. Multiple treatment sessions are usually required. Camouflage cosmetics may also be used for patients who prefer non-invasive options. Dermatological follow-up is recommended to monitor for any changes in the pigmented area.

Inheritance

Sporadic

Usually appears on its own, not inherited from a parent

Age of Onset

Variable

Can begin at different ages, from infancy through adulthood

Source: openFDA + DailyMed · NDA / BLA labels with structured indications · refreshed weekly

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced daily · phases, status, and PI names normalized at ingest

Source: NPI Registry + PubMed · trial PI roles cross-referenced with ClinicalTrials.gov · ranked by match score (publications + PI activity + community signal)

Source: NORD Rare Disease Centers + NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) · centers verified active within last 12 months

Source: PubMed + NIH RePORTER + openFDA + clinical-journal RSS · last 30 days · disease-tagged at ingest by AI extraction with human QC

Common questions about Nevus of Ito