title: Update on melanocytic nevi in children.
abstract: A new or changing melanocytic nevus in a child or adolescent often leads to concern in parents and physicians. To avoid undue alarm and unnecessary procedures, dermatologists should be aware of the natural history and clinical spectrum of nevi in pediatric patients, as well as findings that are potentially worrisome in this age group. This review provides an update on melanocytic nevi in children, focusing on their dynamic evolution over time, molecular insights into nevogenesis, and phenotypic markers for increased risk of melanoma in adolescence and adulthood. Special considerations for Spitz nevi and nevi located in particular sites (eg, scalp, acral, genital) are highlighted. Current understanding of the risks associated with congenital melanocytic nevi of different sizes and strategies for the management of children with numerous acquired nevi, Spitz nevi, and congenital nevi are also discussed.
authors.affiliation: Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, 240 East 38th Street, 11th Floor, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016; Division of Pediatric Dermatology, Hackensack University Medical Center, 155 Polifly Road, Suite 101, Hackensack, NJ, 07601. Electronic address: Jvschaffer2@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Julie V
authors.initials: JV
authors.lastname: Schaffer
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D009508:Nevus, Pigmented / Q000151:congenital / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000151:congenital / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy