Intramucosal nevus of buccal mucosa in a male child

Abstract

Nevus (mole or birthmark) is a benign tumour of skin and mucosa characterised by the presence of melanin-producing, neuroectodermally derived cells, which can be light to dark brown, reddish brown, blue or flesh coloured. It varies in shape from oval to round. Oral melanotic nevi are uncommon oral lesions causing focal pigmentation. They were found only in 0.1% of population in a large survey. Nevi can be acquired over time or congenital. Acquired nevi are considered benign neoplasms whereas congenital nevi are hamartomas. They are located usually on the palate but less commonly on buccal mucosa, gingiva and lips. This article presents a case report of an intramucosal nevus of buccal mucosa in a 5-year-old boy with its surgical removal.