melanocytic nevus (mole)

Etiology

• clustering of melanocytic nevus cells in the skin
• sun exposure is a key factor

Epidemiology

• one of the most common acquired neoplasm in Caucasians
• most adults have about 20

Pathology

* histopathology images

Clinical manifestations

• generally asymptomatic, cosmetic
• new nevi commonly form through middle age, especially in sun- exposed areas & tend to regress with older age

* images

Laboratory

• clinical diagnosis generally sufficient
• skin biopsy if lesion has malignant characteristics

Differential diagnosis

• malignant melanoma
• basal cell carcinoma

Management

• most nevi do not require treatment
• nevi with malignant potential
  • careful observation
  • excision with adequate margins with histopathology
• patient education
  • observe for signs of malignant changes
    • changes in borders (asymmetry, irregularity)
    • changes in pigmentation (more varied or stippled)
    • crusting or bleeding
    • pruritus, pain, or tenderness
  • sunscreen or avoidance of sun exposure
• referral to dermatology
  • multiple melanocytic nevi & a family history of melanoma
    • dysplastic nevus syndrome

More general terms

• nevus
• melanocytic neoplasm

More specific terms

• compound nevus
• congenital melanocytic nevus
• dermal melanocytic nevus (basal cell nevus)
• dysplastic (Clark's) melanocytic nevus
• halo nevus
• junctional melanocytic nevus
• Mongolian spot
• nevus of Ota
• nevus spilus
• Spitz nevus; spindle cell nevus; epithelioid nevus

Additional terms

• clinical features distinguishing atypical from benign nevi
• dysplastic nevus syndrome (inherited familial atypical mole & melanoma syndrome)

Patient information

melanocytic nevus (mole) patient information