Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Jesus Rosario Hernandez, M.D. [2].
Overview
Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn (SCFN or SFN) is a rare form of lobular panniculitis occurring in neonates that is usually self-remitting and non-recurring. Proposed causes include perinatal stress, local trauma, hypoxia and hypothermia, though the exact cause is unknown. Complications can include hypercalcemia, hyperlipidemia and thrombocytopenia, and can present months after the onset of SCFN symptoms.
Physical examination
Gallery
Skin
Extremities
Trunk
References
© 2026 MyEClinic – IFTM Institut für Telematik in der Medizin GmbH