Ash Leaf Spots & Genetic Conditions

Genetic conditions refer to diseases that are passed from one generation to another. Tuberous sclerosis is one such condition. It takes its name from the shape of the tumor that grows in the brain; a tuber or root shape (See Reference 2). The condition causes a skin condition that produces white spots resembling an ash leaf (See Reference 2).

Genetics

• Two genes, TS1 and TS2, carry tuberous sclerosis according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The condition is the result of a mutation in each gene. Only one parent has to carry the gene for the condition to be inherited. A child born to one parent with the condition has a 50 percent chance of inheritance. Not every case of tuberous sclerosis is the result of an inheritance. The genes have the ability to mutate on their own and produce a new case.

Symptoms

• Tuberous sclerosis affects the brain, skin and other parts of the body. The tumors in the brain leads to seizures. In many cases the brain does not develop fully with learning disabilities. Other symptoms include growths on the gums, tongue and eyes. Tumors also grow on the heart producing irregular heart rhythms. For skin disorders one symptom is the emergence of white spots resembling ash leafs known as ash leaf spots.

Hypomelanic Macules

• White or light patches of skin that appear on the body of persons with tuberous sclerosis are the result of a lack of melanin or skin pigment. Melanin is the substance that gives skin its color. Hypomelanic macules is the scientific name for the spots. The common name is ash leaf spots. These spots appear at any location on the body

Treatment

• In most situations ash leaf spots do not cause problems and no treatment is required. Lasers remove some skin conditions like growths on the face that affect a person's appearance. Ash leaf spots, while affecting the skin's appearance, do not cause disfigurement for most individuals.