Nevi and melanomas

Nevi and Melanomas are skin conditions that are often associated with skin cancer. They are characterized by the presence of pigmented lesions on the skin, which can vary in size, shape, and color.

Nevi

A nevi (plural: nevi) is a benign skin lesion that is usually pigmented. It is often referred to as a mole. Nevi are common and can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually brown, but can also be skin-colored or pink, black, red, blue, or purple. Nevi are caused by clusters of pigmented cells known as melanocytes.

Melanomas

Melanomas are a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes. They are less common than other skin cancers, but are more dangerous because they are more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. Melanomas can develop from existing moles, but they often appear as new spots on the skin. They can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common on the back in men and on the legs in women.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing nevi and melanomas include exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, a family history of skin cancer, having many moles or unusual moles, and having fair skin, freckles, or light hair.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of nevi and melanomas involves protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure, regularly checking the skin for new moles or changes to existing moles, and seeking medical advice if any changes are noticed. Treatment for nevi usually involves monitoring for changes, while treatment for melanomas can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

See Also

• Skin Cancer
• Melanocytes
• Ultraviolet Radiation