A rare case of subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn

Introduction. Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn (SCFN) is a rare disorder of the subcutaneous adipose tissue. Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn usually appears days to weeks after a complicated perinatal period and the most frequent risk factors are birth asphyxia, birth trauma and meconium aspiration. Clinically, the disease is characterized by oedematous lesions evolving into indurated, erythematous plaques and nodules. Skin lesions dissolve spontaneously in weeks/months.

Objective. To present a rare case of subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn.

Case report. Monthly infant, born at time of caesarean due to fluctuations in heart rate in a state of severe asphyxia. As a cause of respiratory distress, meconium aspiration syndrome was confirmed. In the first days of life transient thrombocytopenia and elevated markers of inflammation in the laboratory tests were observed. In addition, oedematous lesions evolving into indurated plaques and nodules on the back and upper limbs appeared. Based on a typical clinical picture diagnosis of subcutaneous fat necrosis of newborn was diagnosed. During the 3-month follow-up a spontaneous regression of the skin lesions without scarring was observed.

Conclusions . Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn is a rare disease usually with mild course. However, in some cases skin may be a visual marker of life-threatening metabolic disturbances such as hypercalcaemia.