Current challenges in deciphering sutton nevi—literature review and personal experience

Abstract

Halo nevi, known as leukoderma acquisitum centrifugum, Sutton nevus, leukopigmen-tary nevus, perinevoid vitiligo, or perinevoid leukoderma, together with vitiligo and melanoma-associated hypopigmentation, belong to the group of dermatoses designated as immunological leu-kodermas. The etiology and pathogenesis of halo nevi has not been fully elucidated. There are sev-eral mechanisms through which a lymphocytic infiltrate can induce tumoral regression. In this re-view, we aimed to update the knowledge about Sutton nevi starting with the clinical appearance and dermoscopic features, continuing with information regarding conventional microscopy, im-munohistochemistry, and the immunological mechanisms responsible for the occurrence of halo nevi. We also included in the article original unpublished results when discussing dermoscopic, pathologic and immunohistochemical results in halo nevi. Sutton nevi are valuable models for stud-ying antitumor reactions that the human body can generate. The slow and effective mechanism against a melanocytic skin tumor can teach us important lessons about both autoimmune diseases and anticancer defenses.