Congenital spitz nevus

Abstract

Background: Congenital Spitz nevus has been reported previously in the literature, but the histopathologic features have not been examined in detail.

Objective: To histologically examine and report on congenital Spitz nevus.

Method: We examined 10 clinically submitted congenital melanocytic nevi that were histopathologically identified as congenital Spitz nevi and compared them to the characteristics seen in acquired Spitz nevus and superficial congenital melanocytic nevus.

Results: Of the 10 congenital Spitz nevi, 9 were compound and 1 was dermal. Two showed features of combined Spitz nevus (Spitz and blue). Six cases showed all 16 listed characteristics of acquired Spitz nevus, with two cases having 15 and two cases having 14 characteristics. Of the superficial congenital melanocytic nevus characteristics, all except three cases had all 12 attributes. The one dermal lesion had all the characteristics of the acquired Spitz nevus and all but one of the characteristics of the superficial congenital melanocytic nevus in regards to intradermal findings.

Conclusions: Congenital Spitz nevi are true congenital lesions, with histopathologic features of both acquired Spitz nevus and superficial congenital melanocytic nevus.