SPECKLED NEVUS

What is a Speckled Nevus?

A speckled nevus (also known as Nevus Spilus) is an irregularly shaped light brown macule with darkly pigmented macules or papules scattered randomly within the macule.  A speckled nevus is thought to be a subtype of a congenital melanocytic nevus. The background tan patch is usually noted at or soon after birth and the superimposed darkly pigmented macules and papules can appear over time. The nevus has a prevalence of approximately 2%.

What is the risk of cancer with a Speckled Nevus?

The risk of developing melanoma in a speckled nevus is similar to the classic congenital melanocytic nevi of the same size range.  The lesion should be followed clinically with periodic exams and suspicious areas should be biopsied.