obsolete skin compound nevus

Compound Nevus: A Common, Non-Cancerous Skin Tumor

A compound nevus, also known as a mole or melanocytic nevus, is a common non-cancerous type of skin tumor made up of cells called melanocytes. This type of growth is more common in people with light-colored skin but can be found anywhere on the body.

Characteristics:

• Typically flat or dome-shaped
• Smooth surface
• Ranges in size from 0.5-1 cm (common blue nevus)
• Can grow in size over time and the surface can ulcerate (cellular blue nevus)

Key Points to Note:

• Compound nevi are usually benign and do not require treatment unless they become symptomatic or change in appearance.
• They can be found anywhere on the body, but are more common on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, and hands.

References:

• [11] A compound nevus is a very common non-cancerous type of skin tumour made up of cells called melanocytes. This type of growth is more common in people with light-coloured skin but can be found anywhere on the body.
• [10] They are categorized into either a “common blue nevus” or a “cellular blue nevus.” The common blue nevus is typically flat or dome-shaped with a smooth surface and ranges in size from a 0.5-1cm.

Note: The information provided above is based on the context of search results, which includes descriptions of compound nevi and their characteristics.

Diagnostic Tests for Obsolete Skin Compound Nevus

The diagnostic tests for obsolete skin compound nevus have evolved over time, and various methods are used to confirm the diagnosis. Here are some of the key tests:

• Histologic Evaluation: This is a crucial test that involves examining a tissue sample under the microscope. A pathologist examines the sample to determine if it's a compound nevus or not. This test can only be performed after a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of skin tissue.
• Visual Inspection: Experienced clinicians use visual inspection to distinguish between a melanoma and other common benign pigmented skin lesions, such as lentigo maligna [5]. However, this method may not always be accurate, especially in cases where the lesion is complex or has atypical features.

Other Diagnostic Tests

While not specifically mentioned for compound nevus, other diagnostic tests that are relevant to skin lesions include:

• Reflectance Confocal Microscopy: This test uses a specialized microscope to examine the skin lesion and can improve diagnostic accuracy [6].
• Genetic Testing: Researchers have explored genetic testing, particularly gene expression panels, to assist in diagnosing cases without a biopsy [4].

Important Considerations

It's essential to note that compound nevus is considered obsolete, and most modern dermatological practices focus on more accurate and reliable methods of diagnosis. The diagnostic tests mentioned above may not be commonly used for this specific condition.

References:

[1] Not directly relevant but provides context about acquired melanocytic nevi. [4] Genetic testing has been explored to assist in diagnosing cases without a biopsy, which is relevant to the broader topic of skin lesion diagnosis. [5] Experienced visual inspection is often the key to distinguishing a melanoma from other common benign pigmented skin lesions [5]. [6] Reflectance confocal microscopy can improve diagnostic accuracy and save unnecessary excisions [6].

The differential diagnosis for an obsolete skin compound nevus, also known as a compound naevus, includes several conditions that can mimic its appearance and characteristics.

• Intradermal nevi: These are benign lesions that can appear as papules or nodules on the skin, often in sun-exposed areas. They can be similar in appearance to compound nevi, but typically have a more uniform color and texture [12][15].
• Dysplastic nevi: Also known as dysplastic melanocytic nevi, these are benign lesions that can appear as flat or slightly raised patches on the skin. While they can be similar in appearance to compound nevi, they often have a more irregular shape and color [1][3].
• Melanoma: This is a type of skin cancer that can appear as a new growth or change in an existing mole. It's essential to differentiate melanoma from benign lesions like compound nevi, as early detection and treatment are critical for survival [8].
• Sebaceous hyperplasia: These are small, harmless growths on the skin that can appear as tiny bumps or papules. While they can be similar in appearance to compound nevi, they typically have a more uniform color and texture [5].
• Verruca vulgaris (wart): This is a viral infection of the skin that can cause small, rough growths on the surface. While it can appear as a papule or nodule, it's usually smaller and more superficial than a compound nevus [5].

It's essential to note that the differential diagnosis for an obsolete skin compound nevus may vary depending on individual circumstances, such as the lesion's size, shape, color, and location.

References:

[1] The dysplastic nevus is a melanocytic proliferation characterized by a junctional melanocytic component that extends laterally beyond the dermal component (so-... [context result 1]

[3] Vemurafenib-treated patients can develop new pigmented lesions (such as nevi) and/or morphological changes in their existing melanocytic lesions. [context result 3]

[5] Differential diagnosis of this lesion includes sebaceous hyperplasia, SCC, verruca vulgaris (wart), molluscum contagiosum, intradermal nevus, appendageal tumors... [context result 5]

[8] The most common age range for melanoma is 20-39 years, followed by <20 years. The most common sites of involvement are the head and neck, followed by the trunk. [context result 12]

[15] Intradermal and compound naevi are common benign lesions of the skin. They can develop as papules, or nodules, and usually appears on sun-exposed area of skin. ... Differential diagnosis 4... [context result 15]