“Oru-Omo” : A Case Series of a Novel Transient Pruritic Dermatosis in Nigerian Nursing Mothers

Oru-Omo: A Novel Dermatosis in Nursing Mothers

Abstract

"Oru-Ọmọ," a Yoruba term meaning "heat from the child," refers to a pruritic, self-limiting dermatosis
observed on the volar forearms of nursing mothers in Nigeria. Although often misdiagnosed as miliaria, its
clinical features and chronicity suggest a distinct pathophysiological entity. Despite its local recognition, the
condition is underreported in scientific literature, and its aetiology remains poorly understood.

We report three cases of this dermatosis in lactating mothers attending a dermatology clinic in Ile-Ife, a
Yoruba-speaking setting in Southwestern Nigeria. All presented with symmetrical, flat-topped
erythematous papules on the volar forearms, with two reporting additional involvement of the chest and
interscapular regions. Lesions appeared 2-3 months postpartum, worsened with heat and direct skin
contact with the infant's scalp and responded to topical corticosteroids. Two mothers reported similar
episodes in previous postpartum periods with spontaneous resolution following weaning.

Oru-Ọmọ is a distinct, self-limiting dermatosis requiring clinical recognition and differentiation from miliaria.
The clinical response to topical corticosteroids and the distinct anatomical distribution suggest a
hypersensitivity and occlusive mechanism potentially linked to infant hair care products. Further research is
needed to elucidate its pathogenesis and inform culturally sensitive care.

Keywords: Nursing Mothers Dermatitis, Breast Feeding, Miliaria, Hypersensitivity, Contact Dermatitis