How do you describe melanocytic nevi?
Giant congenital melanocytic nevus is a skin condition characterized by an abnormally dark, noncancerous skin patch (nevus) that is composed of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. It is present from birth (congenital) or is noticeable soon after birth.
What is acquired melanocytic nevus?
Acquired melanocytic nevi are clumps of melanocytes which originate in childhood but usually manifest during the prime of life, in individuals in the 30-40 year age group. Their number increases with sun exposure and in individuals with fairer skin color.
Can melanocytic nevus be removed?
Small- and medium-sized nevi are generally harmless but can be removed for aesthetic reasons. Removal of a small nevus consists of a simple excision, cutting out the affected area and stitching the surrounding skin back together. Removing a large nevus is a much more daunting process.
How is melanocytic nevi removed?
Small nevi can be removed by simple surgical excision. The nevus is cut out, and the adjacent skin stitched together leaving a small scar. Removal of a large congenital nevus, however, requires replacement of the affected skin.
What is the difference between congenital nevi and acquired nevi?
They distinguished congenital nevi present at birth or appearing before puberty with a globular pattern, whereas acquired nevi usually exhibit a reticular pattern.
What is a signature nevus?
The signature nevus is a brown-black compound or junctional lentiginous nevus that may or may not have a thin medium brown rim. The center of the lesion is extremely dark and solid, without a visible pigment pattern by dermoscopy. “The patient can have 200 or more of these nevi.
Does a melanocytic nevus need to be removed?
Surgical Care Melanocytic nevi can be surgically removed for cosmetic considerations or because of concern regarding the biological potential of a lesion. Melanocytic nevi removed for cosmesis are often removed by tangential or shave excision. Punch excision can be used for relatively small lesions.
Should melanocytic nevus be removed?
to the editor: In the article on newborn skin, the authors recommend removal of large and giant congenital melanocytic nevi as the current management strategy. In fact, complete nevus removal is impossible for many large nevi and virtually all giant nevi.
What causes congenital melanocytic nevi?
Causes. Congenital nevi are thought to be caused by a genetic mutation, called a sporadic mutation, which develops randomly as a baby grows in the womb. The condition is not inherited.
Can nevus turn cancerous?
Is it cancer? No. A dysplastic nevus is more likely than a common mole to become cancer, but most do not become cancer.