Aplasia cutis congenita

Summary Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a rare congenital condition characterised by the absence of some or all layers of the skin in a localized or widespread area at birth. It may also be associated with absence of underlying muscle and bone. The scalp is the most common site with 86% of cases occurring as solitary lesions found on the vertex or parietal areas. In this group of patients 20% of lesions involve failure of underlying bone development. Although most commonly seen on the scalp, aplasia cutis congenita can affect any part of the body, including the trunk and limbs. Where dura is exposed there exists a risk of ulceration, infection and haemorrhage and thus primary closure is indicated. We report a case of cutis aplasia successfully closed with opposing bipedicled flaps. This procedure offers a simple safe technique that can be applied in the neonate.