Congenital melanocytic nevi management: answer

Abstract

Congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) are melanocytic lesions presenting at birth or appearing during the first weeks of life. CMN are usually grouped, according to size, in three categories: 1) small congenital nevi (SCN), measuring less than 1.5 cm in greatest diameter; 2) intermediate congenital nevi (ICN) that are 1.5-19.9 cm in greatest diameter; 3) large or giant nevi, larger than 20 cm in greatest diameter. Although the risk of a nevus evolving into a melanoma is low, all congenital nevi, particularly giant nevi, can be considered potential melanoma precursors. Furthermore, other criteria should be considered for an appropriate management of these lesions.

Keywords

• melanocytic nevi
• congenital nevi
• melanoma
• management