All About A Nevus
Please note that Nevus Outreach deals only with large pigmented moles present at birth.
Definition
Nevus (plural nevi ) is the medical term for a birthmark. Nevi are the most common abnormality of the skin, and apparently serve no function. If a birthmark is caused by pigment, it's called a pigmented or melanocytic nevus. If it is present at birth, it's called congenital.
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Medical Challenges
Pigmented moles can be more than skin deep. Challenges include decreased body cooling (fewer functioning sweat glands), and too little fat where the nevus is located. Large nevi can be delicate and tear easily, requiring restricted activity. In a small percentage of cases (more)
Psychological Challenges
Most of the time large moles are both unusual and noticeable. They definitely look "different," and especially draw attention when they're on the face. Onlooking adults and children may sometimes react without considering how they come across. (more)
Treatment Options
As of 2007, the best method for removing large nevi is surgical excision by a skilled plastic surgeon. Adjacent skin is stretched using a technique called "tissue expansion," then the nevus is cut out and the expanded skin is used to cover the area where the nevus was removed. (more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to the questions we get asked the most about large congenital melanocytic nevi (more)
