Transient Pigmentary and Demarcation Lines in a Newborn: A Case Report

Authors

• Mason McDowell, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
• Joshua Wan, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.
• Hannah E. Mumber, Department of Dermatology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
• Margaret S. Lee, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

4-13-2026

Journal

Pediatric dermatology

DOI

10.1111/pde.70188

Keywords

neonatal skin pigmentation; pigmentary demarcation lines; transient pigmentary lines of the newborn

Abstract

Transient pigmentary lines of the newborn (TPLN) is a rare, benign condition characterized by spontaneously resolving hyperpigmented linear patches oriented along skin lines across the trunk and extremities. We report the case of a seven-week-old female who presented with innumerable hyperpigmented lines on the abdomen, dorsal feet, and ankles, as well as a sharp demarcation line separating different pigmentary segments of the upper and mid-chest from lower chest and abdomen. These findings all resolved by 1 year of age. This case expands our understanding of TPLN's variable presentations, possible etiology, and supports its classification as a self-limited, non-pathologic entity.

APA Citation

McDowell, Mason; Wan, Joshua; Mumber, Hannah E.; and Lee, Margaret S., "Transient Pigmentary and Demarcation Lines in a Newborn: A Case Report" (2026). GW Authored Works. Paper 9070.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/gwhpubs/9070

Department

School of Medicine and Health Sciences Student Works