Melanocytic nevus overview
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Editors-In-Chief: Martin I. Newman, M.D., FACS, Cleveland Clinic Florida, [1]; Michel C. Samson, M.D., FRCSC, FACS [2]
Overview
A mole, technically known as a melanocytic nevus, is a small, dark spot on human skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the majority of moles appear during the first two decades of a person’s life while about one in every 100 babies are born with moles. Acquired moles are a form of benign neoplasm, while congenitalmoles are considered a minor malformation, or hamartoma. A mole can be either subdermal (composed of melanin), or a pigmented growth on the skin, formed mostly of a type of cell known as melanocytes. The high concentration of the body’s pigmenting agent, melanin, is responsible for their dark color. Moles are a member of the family of skin lesions known as naevi.
Historical Perspective
At one time in the 1950s and 60s, (and, to lesser extent, currently) a mole was known as a “beauty mark” when it appeared in certain spots on a woman’s face. Examples include Marilyn Monroe, model Cindy Crawford and singer Madonna. Madonna's facial mole -- below her right nostril -- has been surgically removed.
Pathophysiology
Melanocytic nevus is a benign growth on the skin (usually tan, brown, or flesh-colored) that contains a cluster of melanocytes and surrounding supportive tissue.