Clinical Application of Acellular Dermal Matrix in the Treatment of Aplasia Cutis Congenita on Scalp

Abstract

Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC), also called cutis aplasia, is a rare congenital abnormality characterized by focal defect of the skin at birth, frequently involving the scalp, but may affect any region of the body. Approximately 80% of patients have the defect confined to the skin and generally less than 2 cm diameter, which can be managed conservatively with dressing alone. However, some patients present large cutaneous defects and aplasia of the underlying skull may also be present. The main complications of large defects include meningeal infection, bleeding, and thrombosis, which may be deadly. Some controversy remains in the literature regarding ACC treatment, with surgical and conservative treatment modalities having proponents and opponents. This article presents the first case of a newborn with full-thickness ACC lesion of the vertex healed by conservative treatment with application of acellular dermal matrix.