Complex pigmented nevus
A complex pigment nevus is a benign formation in the form of a brown pigment spot, which is located simultaneously in two layers of the skin — the epidermal and dermal. Externally, the nevus resembles a small wart (no more than a centimeter in diameter) or a papule towering above the skin. The nevus begins its growth in the upper layers of the skin, and then gradually grows into the dermis. Despite the fact that this type of nevus is a benign skin formation, according to some data, it can transform into melanoma (in 50-80% of cases).
The content of the article:
Symptoms of complex pigmented nevus
Diagnosis of complex pigmented nevus
Treatment of complex pigmented nevus
Complex pigmented nevus
Symptoms of complex pigmented nevus
A complex pigmented nevus is distinguished by a warty or smooth surface, on which the growth of bristly hair is often present. The nevus is located in two layers of the skin, therefore it combines the signs of intraepidermal and intradermal. The epidermal component causes its brown color, and the presence of an intradermal component contributes to the appearance elevated above the skin level. A complex nevus will rarely reach large sizes.
Diagnosis of complex pigmented nevus
A dermatologist can diagnose a nevus based on a preliminary examination. Timely diagnosis of nevus is the key to rapid and successful treatment. In order to determine the depth and degree of germination of the nevus into the dermis, the doctor may prescribe an ultrasound of the skin formation. During the examination, the doctor conducts a survey of the patient, finding out exactly when the formation occurred, whether its appearance, size, shape and color changed, as well as the causes of the changes themselves. It turns out whether there were attempts at treatment and what exactly was the previous treatment? If there is a suspicion of melanoma, an immediate consultation with an oncologist is necessary. It is very dangerous to perform a biopsy of the nevus, injury to the nevus can develop into a malignant formation. It is for this reason that a histological examination is carried out after its removal.
To date, a new method of diagnosing nevi has appeared — epiluminescent microscopy. This diagnostic method is carried out using a special optical device with artificial illumination. The study takes place directly on the surface of the skin. A couple of drops of vegetable oil are applied to the nevus in order to create an epiluminescence effect, then the device is attached to the neoplasm. This method of examination will not damage the nevus and therefore is the most accurate in determining the structure of the neoplasm. This study was called dermatoscopy.
The method of computer diagnostics is also widely used in such studies. Thanks to a digital video camera, the image of the pigment formation is recorded and stored in the computer memory. There is a special computer program that processes the information received and compares it with a database, eventually giving an accurate conclusion.
Treatment of complex pigmented nevus
This disease requires mandatory observation by a dermatologist. Treatment of pigmented nevus is a strictly individual procedure. The method of treatment is selected by the doctor for each specific case. It is forbidden to use ointments before consulting a doctor. It is not worth delaying treatment and going to the doctor, since there is a high probability that the spot will increase in size every year. The indication for its removal is permanent injury or the appearance of characteristic signs of malignancy. Removal can also be carried out for cosmetic reasons. There are several ways to remove nevus:
using a laser;
radio wave method;
surgical excision;
electrocoagulation;
cryodestruction.
Cryodestruction and electrocoegulation are used very rarely due to the fact that in the process of removal the nevus may not be completely eliminated, as well as due to the danger of its traumatization, which may later develop into malignant growth.
Removal of the nevus by laser does not make it possible to study the nevus in histological examination after elimination. It is most advisable to use the radio wave method or surgical excision for removal, since they guarantee the complete removal of nevus cells, which is of great importance for preventing the development of melanoma.
The surgical method is the most suitable in the case when the nevus is deep in the skin. The disadvantage of this method of elimination is a postoperative scar, since the nevus is removed from the adjacent skin. According to oncological requirements, the diameter of the surface to be removed should be 3-5 cm.
If a nevus is detected, you should immediately consult a doctor for advice. In no case can you excise the nevus yourself, since its injury leads to the development of a malignant tumor. According to statistics, melanoma develops more often in men on the back, and in women on the lower extremities. To prevent the appearance of melanoma, you need to be under the sun as little as possible, abandon the solarium, and also carefully observe the already existing moles. At the first change in their shape or size, you should immediately contact a doctor. There are many cases that have resulted in a fatal outcome due to self-medication and the unwillingness of patients to seek medical help in a timely manner.
