US EPA

7414190 

Journal Article 

Melanotic Spots and Melanocytic Nevi 

Tronnier, M; , 

2020 

Springer Berlin Heidelberg 

Berlin, Heidelberg 

Braun-Falco´s Dermatology 

1-18 

10.1007/978-3-662-58713-3_104-1 

http://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-3-662-58713-3_104-1
Exit
 

Melanotic spots are characterized by a focal increase in melanin pigment; the number of epidermal melanocytes is normal or only slightly increased. Because of their clinical similarity, the differential diagnosis, and frequently overlapping features with melanocytic nevi, are both discussed together. Melanocytic nevi are benign, circumscribed proliferations of melanocytes in the skin. In older terminology, these melanocytes are called nevus cells. It is still a matter of discussion in which cases melanocytic nevi should be regarded as genetically determined malformations (hamartomas) or as benign tumors of the melanocytes. A large congenital melanocytic nevus is more likely to represent a hamartoma, whereas a melanocytic nevus acquired under ultraviolet radiation developing during puberty is more likely to be interpreted as a benign neoplasia of melanocytes. In daily routine, benign pigmented tumors are particularly important because of their distinction from melanoma.