Spitz nevi
Spitz Nevi Spitz nevi are a type of melanocytic nevus, which are benign skin lesions that often resemble melanoma. They are named after Sophie Spitz, who first described them in 1948. Spitz nevi are most commonly found in children and adolescents, but they can occur at any age.
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Spitz nevi typically present as small, dome-shaped, pink or red papules. They are usually less than 1 cm in diameter. The surface of a Spitz nevus can be smooth or slightly scaly, and they are often firm to the touch.
Histopathology[edit | edit source]
Under the microscope, Spitz nevi show a proliferation of spindled and epithelioid melanocytes. These cells are often arranged in nests and can exhibit a variety of architectural patterns. The presence of Kamino bodies, which are eosinophilic globules, is a characteristic feature of Spitz nevi.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing Spitz nevi can be challenging due to their similarity to melanoma. Dermoscopy can aid in the diagnosis by revealing specific patterns such as starburst or globular patterns. However, a biopsy is often required to distinguish Spitz nevi from melanoma definitively.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Most Spitz nevi are benign and do not require treatment. However, if there is any doubt about the diagnosis, or if the lesion changes in appearance, excision may be recommended to rule out melanoma.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for Spitz nevi is excellent, as they are benign lesions. However, regular monitoring is advised, especially if the nevus was not excised, to ensure there are no changes suggestive of malignancy.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
Spitz nevi are relatively rare, accounting for a small percentage of all melanocytic nevi. They are more common in fair-skinned individuals and have no significant gender predilection.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Melanocytic nevus
- Melanoma
- Dermoscopy
- Spitz, S. (1948). "Melanomas of childhood." *American Journal of Pathology*, 24(3), 591-609.
- Ferrara, G., Argenziano, G., & Zalaudek, I. (2008). "Spitz nevus: a comprehensive review." *Dermatology*, 217(4), 319-325.
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Spitz nevi is a rare disease.
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