Introduction

It is a skin disorder which concerns mainly Asians

Clinically, Hori’s Nevus can coexist with melasma (chloasma, pregnancy mask) and or solar lentigos. It can be difficult to distinguish them*.

 

 

*But it is important to distinguish them as Hori’s nevus responds well to the Nd-YAG 1064nm laser. However, solar lentigos (lentigines) respond well to the Nd-YAG 532nm Q-Switched laser.

 

 

How does it look like ?

It presents as roundish bluish macules located on the cheeks.

They appear blue because of the Tyndall effect.

Hori’s Nevus (Courtesy of Professor Goh CL)

 

 

What is it caused by ?

The genetic factors are unknown; so are the origin of the melanocytes

It is thought that the melanocytes could be present at birth and become visible in the twenties and thirties with sun exposure.

 

 

Does it go away on its own ?

In contrast with Mongolian spots, it has a tendency to persist.

In contrast with Mongolian spots and like the Nevus of Ota, Hori’s Nevus is surrounded by an extracellular sheath. This persistent sheath does not allow pigmentation to exit.

 

 

How to treat it ?

Topical treatments are often ineffective.

Hori’s Nevus responds well to the Nd-YAG 1064nm laser.