Letter C

Cafe au lait spot

6 views

A flat spot on the skin that is the color of coffee with milk (café au lait) in persons with light skin, or a darker appearance (café noir) than the surrounding skin in persons with dark skin.

About 10% of the general population have cafe au lait spots, and they can be removed with a Yag laser.

Café au lait spots are in themselves harmless, but in some cases they may be a sign of neurofibromatosis.

The presence of 6 or more café au lait spots each of which is 1.5 centimeters or more in diameter is diagnostic of neurofibromatosis.

Conversely, most people with neurofibromatosis who are at least 5 years old have 6 or more cafe au lait spots 1.5 centimeters or more in diameter

Share this definition

Medical disclaimer

The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice in any way.

  • It does not replace the advice of a physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
  • It does not represent a prescription of drugs, diagnostic exams or therapies.
  • In case of symptoms, doubts or concerns about your health, always consult a qualified physician.

In case of emergency call 911 (US) or 112 (EU).