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) © 2009 Springer-Verlag.