Plexiform spitz nevus

Area of Science:

• Dermatopathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Spitz nevi are melanocytic neoplasms often seen in children and young adults.
• A rare plexiform variant of Spitz nevus was first described in 1999.

Observation:

• A case of plexiform Spitz nevus occurred on the upper thigh of a 10-year-old boy.
• Histological examination revealed epithelioid cell nodules in a plexiform pattern within the dermis.
• Tumor cells showed eosinophilic cytoplasm, vesicular nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and focal intranuclear inclusions.

Findings:

• The tumor was set in a myxoid stroma with lymphocytic and eosinophilic inflammation.
• Melanin-containing spindle cells were occasionally present.
• The differential diagnosis includes various melanocytic and nonmelanocytic lesions with plexiform or myxoid features.

Implications:

• Accurate histological diagnosis is crucial for differentiating plexiform Spitz nevus from other lesions.
• This case adds to the literature on this rare variant, aiding future diagnostic efforts.
• Understanding the histological spectrum of Spitz nevi is important for clinical management.