Nevus spilus and melanoma: case report and review of the literature

J Cutan Med Surg. 2010 Mar-Apr;14(2):85-9. doi: 10.2310/7750.2009.08090.

Abstract

Background: Nevus spilus is characterized by a pigmented patch with scattered flat or maculopapular speckles. Nevus spilus was first described by Burkley in 1842. Since then, this lesion has been widely debated in the literature, particularly for the possible occurrence of melanoma within the lesion.

Objective: We describe the case of a 65-year-old female presenting with a nodular achromic melanoma that occurred within a nevus spilus on the left thigh.

Conclusion: Our observation is consistent with the idea that this entity in some circumstances may have the ability to evolve into a malignant melanoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Melanoma / surgery
  • Nevus, Pigmented / pathology*
  • Nevus, Pigmented / surgery
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery