Neurocutaneous melanosis in children with giant congenital melanocytic nevi

Twenty-four children with giant congenital melanocytic nevi underwent brain MRI at 1.5 T scanner. Melanin deposits in the brain were found in seven children (29.2%) located in temporal lobes, thalamus, cerebellum, and pons. One patient showed leptomeningeal involvement. Six patients were asymptomatic, and one had epilepsy. As opposed to previous reports, localization of skin nevi on anterior part of trunk was correlated to central nervous system involvement. In all patients with brain involvement skin nevi showed picture of compound nevus with neurofibromatic component.