Dermatopathology updates on melanocytic lesions

Abstract

This article provides an update on histopathologic studies of different types of melanocytic lesions, such as site-specific nevi, "Spark's" nevi, nevi during pregnancy, and atypical dermal melanocytic proliferation, including pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma, proliferating nodules, and atypical Spitzoid tumor. Special-site nevi, such as those appearing on the breast and genital region, generally have more cytologic and architectural atypia. Melanocytic proliferations generally do not change during pregnancy, contrary to earlier observations. Atypical dermal melanocytic proliferations are difficult to diagnose and usually have a better outcome after adequate treatment, including wide local skin excision with or without sentinel lymph node resection.