Review article
Dysplastic Nevus – Risk Factor or Disguise for Melanoma
Iva Dediol
Vedrana Bulat
Maja Vurnek Živković
Bernarda Mišanović Marković
Mirna Šitum
Abstract
Dysplastic nevus is an acquired or hereditary nevus that clinically seems atypical and pathohistologically dysplastic.
The term of dysplastic nevus has chaged through history and even until now the dermatologists and pathologists have
not found the same conclusion for name and definition of dysplastic nevus. Epidemiology of dysplastic nevus is different
depending on geographic lattitude, being three times higher in Australia than in Great Britain. Genetic factors play a
role in etiology of dysplastic nevus but are still not well defined. UV radiation is indisputable main etiological factor in
developing dysplastic nevus. Many studies confirm that children who have been using sun protection creams with SPF
have less dysplastic nevi than those who did not. Nevus with geographic shape and muddy borders, dominately macular,
red to brown colored and has 5 mm or more in diameter is clinically dysplastic nevus. ABCDE rules count for dysplastic
nevus as well as for melanoma but prefferable diagnostic criteria for dysplastic nevus would be »ugly duckling sign«.
Pathohistologic analysis is the key in confirming the diagnosis of dysplastic nevus. Great experience and knowledge in
dermatopathology field is essential for pathologists to make a distinction between dysplastic nevus and melanoma in
situ. Likewise great experience in dermatooncology field is essential in differentiating dysplastic nevus from other nevi.
Surgical excision is the only therapy that should be done for dysplatic nevus. Regular follow up is highly recommended
for patients with dysplatic nevus and syndroma naevi dysplastici. Education about sun protection measures and self-examination
techniques is essential for all patients with dysplastic nevi and their family.
Keywords
dysplastic nevus; atypical nevus; dysplastic nevus syndrome; melanoma; dermatooncology
Hrčak ID:
72299
URI
Publication date:
25.9.2011.
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