Nevus

What is the risk of melanoma in people with congenital nevi?
Larger congenital nevi carry a higher risk of developing melanoma.

• Giant nevi: 5-10% lifetime risk of melanoma.
• Small and medium nevi: Less than 1% risk.

What should I monitor in my congenital nevus for signs of cancer?

• Watch for changes in size, shape, or color.
• Be aware of symptoms like darkening, lumpiness, or irregular borders.
• Regular skin exams are recommended for large or giant nevi.

What are the treatment options for congenital nevi?
Treatment options depend on size and depth of the nevus:

• Excision: Complete removal for smaller nevi.
• Laser therapy: To lighten the appearance of the nevus.
• Skin grafting or tissue expansion: For large nevi requiring extensive removal.

What complications are associated with congenital nevi?

• The primary concern is the potential for melanoma, especially in giant nevi.
• Other complications include neurocutaneous melanocytosis, which affects the brain and spinal cord.

Why is early evaluation important for congenital nevi?

• Early evaluation helps monitor for signs of cancerous changes.
• It allows for discussion of treatment options if the nevus poses cosmetic or medical concerns.

What should be discussed during a consultation for congenital nevi?

• Discuss available treatment options and risks involved..
• Review the number of stages required and the expected aesthetic outcomes.
• Your surgeon will help set realistic expectations based on your case.

Can congenital nevi appear after birth?

• While most congenital nevi are present at birth, some can appear shortly after, known as tardive nevi.
• These develop in early childhood and grow slowly over time.

What factors affect the decision to treat a congenital nevus?

• The decision depends on factors like size, location, and risk of malignancy.
• Cosmetic concerns and patient preference also play a role in treatment decisions.

Can congenital nevi disappear on their own?

• In rare cases, congenital nevi may fade or disappear over time.
• However, this is uncommon, and most nevi remain or change in appearance.

How does family history affect the risk of congenital nevus complications?

• A family history of melanoma can increase the risk of malignancy in individuals with congenital nevi.
• Regular monitoring is crucial if there is a family history of skin cancer.

Are there any non-surgical options to reduce the appearance of congenital nevi?
Non-surgical options include:

• Chemical peels: To lighten the nevus.
• Dermabrasion or skin curettage: To reduce its prominence.
• Laser treatments: To minimize pigmentation.

What is neurocutaneous melanocytosis, and how is it related to congenital nevi?

• Neurocutaneous melanocytosis involves melanocytes in the brain and spinal cord.
• It affects 5-10% of individuals with giant congenital nevi.
• Symptoms can include headaches, seizures, or developmental delays.

What factors influence the size of a congenital nevus?

• The earlier a nevus begins to form during fetal development, the larger it tends to be.
• Nevi continue to grow as the body grows, especially during childhood and puberty.