AXILLARY FRECKLING
What is axillary freckling?
Axillary freckling is the presence of flat, tan colored spots in the armpit area. Axillary freckles are sometimes referred to as Crowe’s sign or café-au-lait macules and can be associated with a disease called neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Please see neurofibromatosis (or von Recklinghausen’s disease) for more information. This type of freckles can also be present in the groin area. Axillary freckles are present in about 20-30% of patients with NF1 and café-au-lait macules (not specific to the axilla) are present in 95% of those with NF1.
Other syndromes associated with café-au-lait spots and axillary freckling include: McCune-Albright syndrome, Fanconi anemia, Tuberous sclerosis and Bloom syndrome to name a few.
What causes axillary freckling?
Axillary freckles are caused by an increase in melanin (skin pigment) content leading to a hyperpigmented lesion.
What is axillary freckling associated with?
Axillary freckling does not require treatment, however a diagnostic work-up should be done to diagnose any underlying condition, such as NF1.