Nevi - Symptoms, Causes, Images, and Treatment Options

Diseases

Highlights & Basics

Key Highlights

Nevus is a benign collection of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the epidermis, dermis, or both.
Can be present at birth or shortly thereafter, or acquired throughout childhood, peaking during the third decade.
Seen in all races. Dysplastic or Clark nevi are more commonly seen in white people.
Melanoma is the most important differential diagnosis when examining melanocytic nevi. Asymmetry, border irregularity, color variegation, diameter >6 mm, and evolution or change in a pigmented lesion (ABCDEs) may signify concern for malignancy.
Diagnosis is usually clinical, although dermatoscopy and/or biopsy can be utilized to further examine the lesion in cases where there may be uncertainty as to the diagnosis or a concern for malignancy.

A common acquired nevus

From the collection of Laurel Schwartz, Thomas Jefferson University

Quick Reference

History & Exam
- Key Factors
- Other Factors
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Diagnostics Tests
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Treatment Options
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Definition

Epidemiology

Etiology

Pathophysiology

Images

Currently known gene mutations and gene fusions associated with nevi
A common acquired nevus
A common acquired nevus
A small congenital melanocytic nevus
A medium congenital nevus
A giant congenital melanocytic nevus
A nevus spilus
A blue nevus
A blue nevus
A halo nevus
A Spitz nevus on the ear
A pigmented Spitz nevus
A dysplastic or Clark nevus
A dysplastic or Clark nevus
Dermatoscopy of a blue nevus
Dermatoscopy of a nevus with a reticular pigment network
Dermatoscopy of a cobblestone pattern with a peripheral pigment network
Dermatoscopy of a dysplastic or Clark nevus
Dermatoscopy of a dysplastic or Clark nevus
Dermatoscopy of a dysplastic or Clark nevus
A persistent or recurrent nevus
A dysplastic or Clark nevus
A compound acquired melanocytic nevus
Dermatoscopy of a pigmented Spitz nevus
Dermatoscopy of a volar nevus
A volar nevus
Dermatoscopy of melanoma

Citations

Key Articles

Duffy K, Grossman D. The dysplastic nevus: from historical perspective to management in the modern era: part I. Historical, histologic, and clinical aspects. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2012 Jul;67(1):1.e1-16.[Abstract]
Duffy K, Grossman D. The dysplastic nevus: from historical perspective to management in the modern era. Part II. Molecular aspects and clinical management. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2012 Jul;67(1):19.e1-12.[Abstract]
Wernli KJ, Henrikson NB, Morrison CC, et al. Screening for skin cancer in adults: updated evidence report and systematic review for the US Preventive Services Task Force. JAMA. 2016 Jul 26;316(4):436-47.[Abstract][Full Text]

Other Online Resources

American Academy of Dermatology

Referenced Articles

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