[Linear hyperpigmentation in the newborn]

Linear hyperpigmentation following the cutaneous bending lines of the fetal position is rarely reported.

A Senegalese, black, male newborn had presented a pigmentary abnormality since birth. He was born at term and examination revealed extensive linear and retiform pigmentation of the extremities. The hyperpigmentation disappeared completely by two to three months of age. There was a family history in Senegal.

Our case resembles others found in the literature. A defect of migration of the melanocytes and an ethnic factor may be hypothesized.