Skin and Soft Tissues

Abstract

General considerations

■ The classification of nevi as junctional, compound or intradermal is determined by the exact location of the nevus cells in the skin

• Junctional nevi may present at birth, in early childhood or during adolescence. They may occur anywhere on the body, are relatively small, flat, and irregular in color or shape

• Compound and intradermal nevi are most frequently on the head and neck, and may become verrucous, raised, dome-shaped or pedunculated

■ Clinically and pathologically nevi may be classified as non-melanocytic or melanocytic

• Non-melanocytic nevi are occasionally associated with congenital syndromes, and the risk for malignant transformation is low

• Melanocytic nevi have a risk for malignant transformation

■ Excessive sun exposure is the main risk factor for development of malignant melanoma in melanocytic nevi patients

■ Patients with melanocytic nevi should be observed with care (photographic documentation)