The clinical spectrum of naevus anaemicus and its association with port wine stains: report of 15 cases and a review of the literature.

Abstract

Fifteen patients with naevus anaemicus (NA) are reported. Twelve (8%) of 146 patients with a port wine stain (PWS) attending a laser clinic were noted to have this abnormality. In a control population of 298 new dermatology out-patient attenders, specifically examined for the presence of NA, three (1%) further cases were found. The clinical features of patients with NA are described and the literature reviewed. This is the largest group of patients with this disorder described in the English literature. The association of NA and PWS is confirmed. This study suggests that NA is more common than previously considered.