Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
Nevus sebaceus (NS) is a congenital benign hamartomatous malformation typically appearing on the scalp and face as a yellow/orange hairless plaque. Benign secondary tumours can develop but malignant transformation is exceptionally rare.
Objectives
This study aimed to assess the current approach of Irish physicians across four specialties who will encounter children with NS—plastic surgery, dermatology, pediatrics, and neonatology.
Methods
Cross‐sectional questionnaire surveys were developed and distributed by e‐mail to Irish (i) dermatologists and plastic surgeons and (ii) pediatricians and neonatologists via national society mailing lists.
Results
A third (32.2%,
n
= 10) of dermatologists were very confident in diagnosing NS and half (48.4%,
n
= 15) were quite confident in diagnosing NS. Half (48%,
n
= 12) of plastic surgeons were very confident in diagnosing NS and a third (32%,
n
= 8) were quite confident in diagnosing NS. No (
n
= 0) pediatricians or neonatologists were very confident in diagnosing NS and half (50%,
n
= 11) were quite confident in diagnosing NS. Two‐thirds (68%,
n
= 17) of plastic surgeons but only 6.5% (
n
= 2) of dermatologists recommended routine excision. All (
n
= 22) pediatricians and neonatologists referred to dermatology rather than plastic surgery. Less than half (44.6%,
n
= 25) of dermatologists and plastic surgeons and only 13.6% (
n
= 3) of pediatricians and neonatologists reported routinely providing families with a patient information leaflet.
Conclusions
This study highlights variation in practice between specialties involved in NS management in Ireland. We strongly advocate for the development of international guidelines for NS management to promote consistency in care and facilitate further research in the risk of complications from NS.