Heel-line hyperpigmentation: a variant of sock-line hyperpigmentation after the use of heel-length socks

Heather Ciliberto1, David Berk, Pankaj Salphale

  • 1Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Washington University and St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA.

Pediatric Dermatology
|February 26, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Infants can develop temporary hyperpigmented patches on their heels from wearing tight socks. These sock-line hyperpigmentation marks fade after removing the constrictive footwear, distinguishing them from serious conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Infantile skin is sensitive to external pressures.
  • Linear hyperpigmentation can occur in infants due to various causes.

Observation:

  • Two infants presented with curvilinear hyperpigmented patches on their posterior heels.
  • The lesions appeared after wearing heel-length socks with elastic bands.

Findings:

  • The hyperpigmented patches resolved after discontinuing the use of the socks.
  • This condition is termed sock-line hyperpigmentation, a known entity in infants.

Implications:

  • It is crucial to recognize sock-line hyperpigmentation to avoid misdiagnosis.
  • Differentiating this benign condition from child abuse or amniotic band syndrome is essential for appropriate infant care.

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