Leaves that leave their mark: A case series of pediatric Piper Betle-induced leukomelanosis

Pediatr Dermatol. 2020 Sep;37(5):911-914. doi: 10.1111/pde.14272. Epub 2020 Jul 4.

Abstract

This case series presents 10 pediatric patients, aged 4 to 9 years, with leukomelanosis on the chest or forehead. The pigmentary changes developed after the traditional use of Piper betle leaves as a home-based remedy for a cough or cold. Piper betle-induced leukomelanosis in children is a rare dermatosis resulting from cultural practices. It is important to recognize the role of ethnobotany in dermatology.

Keywords: Piper betle; herbal remedies; skin pigmentation.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Pigmentation Disorders
  • Piper betle*
  • Plant Extracts
  • Plant Leaves

Substances

  • Plant Extracts