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Pigmented lesions in children: when to worry
1Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, New York 10016, USA. schafj04@med.nyu.edu
Current Opinion in Pediatrics
|July 17, 2007
Summary
Childhood melanoma is rare, but understanding melanocytic nevi is key. Pediatricians should recognize worrisome pigmented lesions and risk factors for melanoma in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- Childhood melanoma incidence is low but rising in adults.
- Pediatricians need awareness of melanocytic nevi and concerning pigmented lesions.
Purpose of the Study:
- Summarize current knowledge on childhood melanocytic nevi.
- Discuss risk factors, phenotypic markers, and management strategies.
- Review prepubertal melanoma clinical presentations and behavior.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent studies on melanocytic nevi development and molecular basis.
- Analysis of environmental and genetic factors influencing nevus development.
- Evaluation of phenotypic markers for melanoma risk.
Main Results:
- Common pediatric melanocytic nevi types identified.
- Environmental (sun exposure) and genetic (familial atypical mole and melanoma syndrome) risk factors detailed.
- Phenotypic markers like numerous acquired nevi and red hair phenotype highlighted for monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Clinical and molecular research enhances understanding of melanocytic nevi.
- Pathways of melanocytic tumorigenesis are better defined.
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