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Skin Cancer

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Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Anterior High-Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography in the Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia

Anterior High-Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography in the Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia

Published on: August 9, 2024

Epidermolysis bullosa nevi.

Christoph Michael Lanschuetzer¹, Martin Laimer, Elke Nischler

¹Department of Dermatology, Paracelsus Medical University, Müllner Hauptstr. 48, Salzburg 5020, Austria. c.lanschuetzer@salk.at

Dermatologic Clinics

|December 1, 2009

Summary

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) nevi are melanocytic lesions that can mimic melanoma. Regular evaluation and targeted biopsies are crucial for managing these lesions in EB patients due to skin fragility.

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Area of Science:

Dermatology
Genetics
Oncology

Background:

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by extreme skin fragility.
EB-associated nevi are melanocytic lesions frequently occurring in areas of skin trauma, presenting diagnostic challenges.
These nevi can exhibit features mimicking melanoma, necessitating careful monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

To outline the clinical characteristics and management strategies for Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) nevi.
To emphasize the importance of regular dermatologic surveillance and appropriate diagnostic procedures for EB nevi.

Main Methods:

Clinical observation and dermoscopic evaluation of EB nevi.
Histopathologic examination of selected EB nevi via punch biopsy.
Avoidance of prophylactic total excision due to patient-specific factors like skin fragility.

Main Results:

EB nevi are often large, asymmetrical, and irregularly pigmented, sometimes with satellite lesions.
Dermoscopy aids in identifying concerning features, but even featureless lesions warrant biopsy.
Targeted punch biopsies are preferred over complete excision in EB patients.

Conclusions:

Regular, at least twice-yearly, evaluation of EB nevi and wounds is essential.
Dermoscopy-guided punch biopsies are a safe and effective method for diagnosing EB nevi, balancing diagnostic needs with patient safety.
Prompt histopathologic examination is critical for distinguishing EB nevi from melanoma.