Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Electroporation-Based Genetic Modification of Primary Human Pigment Epithelial Cells Using the Sleeping Beauty Transposon System
Published on: February 4, 2021
[Pigment nevi in children]
1Universitätsklinik für Dermatologie, Paracelsus Medizinische Privatuniversität, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Salzburg. j.koller@salk.at
Insights
Most pigment nevi are harmless, but congenital and atypical nevi can indicate melanoma risk. Ultraviolet light exposure triggers nevus development, emphasizing the need for sun protection.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Oncology
- Cutaneous Biology
Context:
- Pigmented nevi (moles) are common skin lesions, particularly in fair-skinned children.
- Nevus development occurs primarily within the first two decades of life.
- Both genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as UV exposure, influence nevus formation.
Purpose:
- To highlight the significance of pigment nevi as potential indicators of melanoma risk.
- To emphasize the role of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in nevus onset.
- To underscore the diagnostic challenges in differentiating nevi from melanoma.
Summary:
- The majority of pigment nevi are benign, but congenital and atypical (dysplastic) nevi are recognized as melanoma precursors.
- Individuals with numerous pigment nevi face an elevated lifetime risk of developing melanoma.
- UV light is a key trigger for pigment nevus development, necessitating preventative measures.
Impact:
- Informing the public and healthcare professionals about nevus-related melanoma risks.
- Promoting awareness of the crucial role of sun protection in preventing nevus development.
- Guiding dermatologists in the differential diagnosis of challenging pigmented skin lesions.
Abstract:
Almost all fair-skinned children demonstrate one or more pigment nevi at the integument. These usually develop in the first two decades of life as a result of an endogenous disposition and exogenous stimulants. While most pigmented nevi are per se harmless, congenital and atypical (dysplastic) nevi are considered as precursors of melanoma and risk indicators. Although one normal nevus in isolation generally presents no risk, children and adults with multiple pigment nevi are at increased risk of developing a melanoma in the course of their life. Since the onset of pigment nevi is undisputedly triggered by ultraviolet light, appropriate prevention and protection is crucial. The differential diagnosis between nevus cell nevi and melanoma is particularly challenging, especially in the case of atypical nevi.
Related Concept Videos
Pigmentation
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...

