Ash Leaf Macule

A 1-3 cm hypopigmented macule that is ash-leaf shaped, oval at one end and pointed at the opposite end, and most often found on the trunk of body.

Ash leaf macules are usually present at birth, and most commonly located on the trunk, but can also be found occasionally on the extremities and face.  Oftentimes, ash leaf macules are subtle and can only be detected with a Wood's light (ultraviolet light with 365nm wavelength).  These macules are often the first cutaneous sign of tuberous sclerosis, and this diagnosis should be strongly suspected in patients with three or more ash leaf macules.  Also known as an ash leaf spot.