The Morphologic Universe of Melanocytic Nevi

Abstract

Different types of nevi do exist in relation to their epidemiology, morphology, evolution, and associated melanoma risk. The introduction of dermoscopy opened a new dimension of the morphologic universe of nevi and allowed clinicians to observe colors and structures within nevi that are otherwise not visible to the unaided eye. Because most of these colors and structures correspond to well-defined histopathologic correlates, dermoscopy enables clinicians to date to more precisely predict the histopathology diagnosis and thereby improve on their clinical diagnostic accuracy. Besides the diagnostic impact, the in vivo observation of thousands of nevi using dermoscopy and digital dermoscopic follow-up has opened new understanding about the evolution of nevi and factors influencing the nevus pattern. In consequence, a new nevus classification has been proposed, subdividing nevi into 7 categories, which are as follows: (1) globular/cobblestone nevi, (2) reticular nevi, (3) starburst nevi, (4) homogeneous blue nevi, (5) nevi on special body sites, (6) nevi with special features, and (7) and unclassifiable melanocytic proliferations. This article provides an overview on the morphologic classification of nevi and the factors influencing the nevus pattern.

Dermoscopic Changes in Melanocytic Naevi in Children during Digital Follow-up

“…In adults, the dermoscopic features and evolution of melanocytic naevi during follow-up have been studied extensively (1). In children, while data concerning dermoscopic features of acquired naevi are available (2,3), there are scarce data on dermoscopic changes in melanocytic naevi during follow-up.…”

Dermoscopic and Immunohistochemical Changes in Acquired Melanocytic Nevi following Narrow-Band Ultraviolet B Therapy

“…These findings could be explained by the fact that blurring is probably equivalent to the homogeneous brown pattern detected in some melanocytic nevi by dermoscopy. Our results revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between the brown color and thickness of pigment network lines; this could be explained by the histopathological correlate of the pigment network which corresponds to elongated rete ridges with increased melanocytes at the basal layer, melanin within basal keratinocytes, and nests of melanocytes at the tips of the rete ridges [19]. …”

Dermoscopy of nevi and melanoma in childhood

“…As previously mentioned, most CMN on the head, neck and trunk have a globular component [20]. The quality, distribution and specific types of globules within CMN are important to note.…”