Abstract

Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by localized or widespread absence of skin mainly affecting the scalp. Bilateral involvement of both the upper and lower extremities is uncommon. This is a case report of a rare congenital disorder. The patient was a 26-hour-old male baby admitted with extensive absence of skin of the lower and upper extremities. He was co-managed conservatively with the plastic surgical team for ACC group VII. The lesions were healing satisfactorily until 12 days into the admission when the parents signed against medical advice despite counseling. Aplasia cutis congenita with involvement of both upper and lower extremities is a rare presentation which responds to conservative treatment. The report emphasizes the need for a legal frame work for physicians to override the decision of the care giver not in the best interest of a child.

Key words: Aplasia cutis congenital, extremities, group 7, Nigeria.